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Thanks to those who responded to my first post.

After months of indigestion (pain in the upper abdomen, usually after
eating or at night) and acid reflux, I saw my GP who put me on Prevacid
which helped, but did not eliminate the indigestion and reflux. I also
modified my diet to include more of what I considered to be lighter, more
digestible foods. More cereals with milk, yogurt, pastas, etc. Things got
worse. Loose bowel movements turned to diarrhea and flatulence. Saw a GI
specialist who did an endoscopy (no biopsy). No ulcer. Read about gluten
and lactose intolerance. Went off lactose and onto a GF diet 3 weeks ago.
Diarrhea and flatulence stopped within a day. Upper GI symptoms continue.
Now on Prilosec supplemented with Mylanta. Reflux and upper abdominal pain
continue despite a diet of mainly cream of rice, veggies, sliced turkey on
rice bread, rice, bananas, etc. Pain has been triggered by jello, grapes,
figs and anything like a normal sized meal. Stomach is very sensitive. Lost
15 pounds since August. Maintaining weight now, but with a lot of effort.

Specialist had blood tests done last week. Antigliaden was 27. He considers
that mildly elevated. Antiendomycelin (sp?) was normal. I told him that I
would like to have a biopsy. He suggested going back on gluten for about
three weeks and having the biopsy done in the latter part of January.

Naturally I have a lot of questions and would appreciate the thoughts and
opinions of those who have gone through this. Please also include things
you think a suspected Celiac ought to know but due to ignorance might not
think of asking.

How significant is an Antigliaden reading of 27?

Does the plan to go back on gluten containing foods for about three weeks
prior to biopsy after having been off for three+ weeks sound reasonable?

Are the symptoms of acid reflux and stomach sensitivity consistent with
Celiac Disease?

If so, how long should it take for them to clear up on a GF diet? (I
realize that there is probably a wide range of experience here, but would
like to know what to expect based on other folks experience.)

In one post, an author referred to her child receiving 'medication to heal
the gut' without any specifics. Would appreciate suggestions in this area.

I would also appreciate recommendations on Celiac/Nutrition aware
specialists in the Rochester, New York area if anyone knows of any.

Finally, I again would appreciate your suggestions for things I haven't
thought of asking that will help me get through this period.

Thanks in advance for taking the time to help.

Joel

BTW, I am a 52 year old male, 5'9' - now 150 pounds and holding and in
otherwise pretty good shape.

Joel H. Elias - Pittsford, NY
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