Denise is the Pathology Lab Manager at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology. She shares her story about how she first learned that she had the condition, and tips for living with Celiac Disease.
In 2008, I came to work for Granite Peaks Gastroenterology. I learned about the importance of digestive health, including being screened at the age of 40 if you have a family history of colon cancer. I was a few years overdue and quickly scheduled a colonoscopy. I had been experiencing diarrhea, gas, bloating and fatigue (all symptoms of celiac disease) for at least 20 years. My daughter used to tease me by telling me napping was my talent. It’s true – I was good at it! Although I had reported my symptoms to at least four previous doctors, it had never resulted in a diagnosis. Eventually, I gave up and stopped telling my doctors of my symptoms, convinced it was “all in my head.”
When I relayed my symptoms to Dr. J. David Schmidt at Granite Peaks GI, however, he convinced me to do an upper and lower colonoscopy. My procedure revealed no colon cancer, but my celiac disease diagnosis was obvious. I was relieved to have an answer and to know my symptoms were real and I wasn’t losing my mind. I am truly grateful to Dr. Schmidt, who encouraged me to get tested.
The only treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. Gluten is in many foods. My first trip to the grocery store was overwhelming. I quickly learned that the best thing I could do is have a positive attitude about living with celiac disease. Don’t think about what you cannot eat. Concentrate on what you can eat. It is important to have foods in their most natural state, such as fresh meats, fruits and vegetables.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease. Having an autoimmune disease makes a person susceptible to other autoimmune diseases. I have diabetes and Hashimoto’s (hypothyroid), both of which fall in the autoimmune category. Why I went undiagnosed for so long will always be a mystery to me. Listen to your body – you know it better than anyone else!
If you are having symptoms of Celiac Disease, contact Granite Peaks Gastroenterology today for an appointment with one of our specialists: (801) 619-9000.