Fina is 3 years old and was diagnosed with celiac disease when she was 13 months old.
What symptoms was your child having before being diagnosed?
My daughter began having digestion problems at the age of 7 mo- when we began giving her solids. It was immediately put aside due to "she was just introduced to new food- let's give it time" etc. at the age of 11 mo she was diagnosed as FTT. She had not gained any weight since she began solids. Her doctor was hesitant to refer her to the GI because severe constipation was not a typical reaction despite family history of celiac. The GI confirmed our suspicions at 13m.
Any other family members diagnosed with celiac disease?
Yes.
How has your child’s life changed since being diagnosed?
Its been affected in several ways. I would say the most significant change is other auto immune disorder complications such as seizures which started in April of 2015 and a weakened immune system as a whole. Another aspect is the social setting difficulties- I am so glad that there are so many gluten alternatives so that we can take special treats to birthdays so that she does not have to miss out. She gets a severe reaction just from playing with Play Doh.
What advice would you offer a parent who’s child was just diagnosed with celiac disease?
Read up on the auto immune disorder itself. It goes so far beyond just diet.
I think Fina's shirt says it all, "Fearless"! Our children experience trauma to their bodies before being diagnosed. They are brave, even when they don't know what's going on. And her story goes to show that doctors still aren't aware of the multiple symptoms of celiac disease and that constipation happens to be a VERY COMMON symptom. I actually didn't realize how common until after sharing these stories. Good job Mom for going with your gut! Best to you and Fina.
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