Questions to Ask After a Celiac Disease Diagnosis
By Lana Bandoim
You may have many questions after receiving a celiac disease diagnosis, so it is important to talk to a doctor and get answers. Consider the following common questions that people have after receiving this type of diagnosis for the first time.
Should the Entire Family Be Tested?
Celiac disease has some genetic links, and research shows that first-degree family members are at a higher risk of having it. Talk to a doctor about testing your siblings, children or parents. They may recommend genetic tests for the entire family that can show genes for celiac disease. However, having these genes is not a guarantee that a person will develop celiac disease.
What Are the Specific Diet Changes?
Celiac disease does not have a cure, but a gluten-free diet can help. If you are not aware of the requirements for this specific diet, then ask questions and get help. It may be necessary to work with a dietician or nutritionist who can offer advice and meal planning suggestions. Make sure you understand how to eliminate gluten and how to replace it.
Are Extra Supplements and Vitamins Necessary?
Celiac disease can create malabsorption of nutrients in the body, so vitamin and mineral deficiencies can occur. Ask your doctor if it is necessary to take extra supplements and vitamins. He or she may order additional tests to check for deficiencies before making a determination. Be careful before taking supplements and vitamins because some products have gluten in them.
Are Other Allergy Tests Necessary?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder and not an allergy. However, it is possible to have allergies and celiac disease at the same time. For example, some people who have celiac disease cannot tolerate dairy or soy. Talk to a doctor to determine if other allergy tests are necessary. Consider getting tests for the common allergens such as eggs, soy, milk, peanuts and shellfish.
Can a Nutritionist Help?
In most cases, a nutritionist can help people with celiac disease who are struggling to understand the gluten-free diet. Ask the doctor for recommendations and find nutritionists who are experts in this disorder. Make sure they are able to answer all of your questions and concerns about the gluten-free diet.
A celiac disease diagnosis will change your life, so it is crucial to ask the right questions and get help from doctors. Make sure they are willing to talk about the disorder and offer help.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gilbert, Ariz.