Sweet Faces of Celiac Disease: Meet Brian

Brian prior to his celiac diagnosis
with a very large distended belly.

Brian is 11 years old and was diagnosed with celiac disease 
at 18 months old. 

What symptoms was your child having before being diagnosed?

Distended abdomen, severe constipation (hard, light colored stools) vomiting, not gaining weight.

Any other family members diagnosed with celiac disease?

No

How has your child’s life changed since being diagnosed?

Brian is an athletic, healthy, happy boy!  He is a competitive swimmer, plays baseball and soccer.  He also loves to ski and surf.

What advice would you offer a parent who’s child was just diagnosed with celiac disease?

We learned there are many different signs/symptoms of celiac disease. Brian did not have the typical symptoms, thank goodness our Physicians Assistant was familiar with celiac disease.  Many doctors missed it as he had been suffering for 6 months prior.  It seems overwhelming at first but it is manageable.

Look at you today Brian, you’re an active young man ready to take on the world (world of sports too)! Jack loves playing baseball as well.  Keep swinging for the stars kiddo!