Celiac Disease is sometimes misdiagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Celiac Disease.

Blood tests are used to diagnose celiac disease. The blood tests have to be done after coming of a gluten free diet if the patient is following one. An endoscopy is recommended if the blood tests confirm diagnosis to check possible damage in the small intestine.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Anemia, constipation, pain in bones or joints, bloating, diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain and cramps, heartburn, fatigue, headache, nausea, rash, weight loss, pale and bad smelling poo, balance problems, tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

Further reference:

www.webmd.com

Click here to go to the A-Z list of diagnoses and misdiagnoses.