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Hello everyone:

Several days ago I sent out the following message:

>   I was diagnosed last December with CD.  After a period of a month
>or so of a gluten free diet, I felt much better.  However, recently
>(past month) I've begun to experience almost constant scalp and skin
>itching.  I'm also having frequent bouts with acid indigestion and
>heart burn usually at the same time as the itching episodes.  Any
>suggestions as to what is going on with me?  Are there any gluten
>free antacids that work?

I received 8 very helpful and encouraging responses.  I have replied
personally to everyone who's message included a return address.  My
summary is below:

gluten-free antacids:
- try alternagel liquid, plain "It is gluten free and lactose free."

- TUMS -EX - both fruit and tropical fruit flavored. Respondent
mentioned that her doctor had suggested taking "more than the
recommended dosage".  She takes "four of the extra strength tablets at a
time".  The respondent mentioned she had called the company "SmithKline
Beecham (800-245-1040), not long after I (the respondent) was diagnosed
(5/97) and they told me both the regular and the EX in all flavors were
gluten free".

Causes of acid indigestion and/or itching:
- sea salt and alcoholic beverages cause both itching and heartburn for
one respondent.  Same person had problems with Gato Negro Chilean red
wine and potato vodka from Poland.
- fatty and spicy foods, coffee, and alcohol.
- shampoo and soap with gluten
- accidental ingestion of gluten and/or casein/lactose such as in
bouillon cubes, or canned soup, pills,
- possible sensitivity to soy
- intolerance to some other food (such as wild rice) which is typical of
celiacs.  Respondent suggested an elimination diet (start with rice for
three days and add one food every three days until the culprit is
identified)

Several respondents mentioned that itchiness was one of their main
symptoms.  Another respondent suggested that "sometimes it is hidden
gluten which gives us symptoms, and to cover up those symptoms could be
detrimental to us."

I have resolved to do a better job watching my diet.  I think there is
something to the fatty foods.  I noticed an increase in intensity in my
heartburn when I ate my wife's beef roast and later vegetable beef soup.
She is absolutely certain that no gluten made it into either.  My
gastroenterologist agrees with me that there is a possible link between
the intense itching I have in my ears (and elsewhere) and perhaps my
skin with my heartburn and acid indigestion.

Thank you again to all who responded.

Erik Kvale