How is Celiac Disease diagnosed? - Celiac Disease Message Board

krisdance83 · 09-19-2004, 09:00 PM

I never used to think I could have Celiac because I don't have chronic diarrheah but I realized that you can have other symptoms and no diarrhea at all. I am starting to worry that I may have it, but then again, I'm a hypochondriac and I think I have everything! Nevertheless, I would like to know how the disease is diagnosed so that I can get checked. Will they find it on my endoscopy?

Harry · 09-19-2004, 09:56 PM

There is a blood test to diagnose Celiac but it is usually followed up by a biopsy of the villi in the small intestines because it is damaged and causes the problems!!
As you may know Celiac is caused by being intolerant to gluten that is in wheat, barley, rye and oat --- including their many --many by products.

It is sometimes difficult to recognize because the symptoms are similar to IBS, anemia and ulcers.

Celiac is inherited --- so if a member of your family has it then chances are you need to be tested.

krisdance83 · 09-20-2004, 10:26 PM

Thanks Harry.
I've already talked to my doctor about having the blood test. I guess we'll go from there.

Unfortuanately I don't know if I have a history of it because I am adopted.