Seeking Advice on My Ongoing Symptoms
Hello everyone! I’m a 34-year-old woman diagnosed with celiac disease. I strayed from my gluten-free diet for a while but have committed to it again since June 4th. Since that time, however, I’ve been experiencing a range of symptoms that haven't really shown much improvement. I consulted my physician and underwent various lab tests, most with normal results, except for a positive ANA of 1:160. My doctor has referred me to several specialists—neurologist, gastroenterologist, allergist, and rheumatologist—and I'm currently in a holding pattern waiting for these appointments, which might take quite a while. Meanwhile, I'm reaching out for insights from those who might have experienced similar issues. Here’s a summary of what I’ve been dealing with: - Abdominal discomfort (this has lessened somewhat) - Frequent bouts of diarrhea with lighter stools - Occasional lightheadedness (often feels similar to being in a falling elevator) - Tinnitus (ringing in my ears) - Unexplained bruising on my arms and legs - Increased eye floaters (wondering if my anxiety is making me overly aware of them) - Trouble maintaining sleep - Hand tremors During my research online, I stumbled upon concerns about toxic mold exposure, which has me feeling quite anxious. A recent ERMI test revealed the presence of mold in my home, prompting me to arrange for an inspection to locate the source. It’s been two weeks since I left my home, but I still haven’t noticed any real change in my condition. I’ve encountered conflicting information regarding toxic mold symptoms, which has added to my confusion. The symptoms, especially the bruising and lightheadedness, have me particularly worried. Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated! Thank you for taking the time to read this. If needed, I can share my lab results. I don’t recall if they tested my iron levels, but my vitamin D and B12 levels are normal.
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 2:50:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation. Given your history with celiac disease and recent symptoms, it’s understandable to feel anxious, especially while waiting for specialist appointments. Let’s break down your concerns and focus on actionable steps to support your well-being during this time.
Key Points
- Celiac Disease Management: Returning to a strict gluten-free diet is crucial, but symptoms may take time to settle.
- Symptom Monitoring: Keep track of your symptoms, especially those that are concerning like lightheadedness and unexplained bruising.
- Home Environment: Addressing potential mold exposure proactively is a wise decision.
Explanation
Celiac disease affects nutrient absorption, which can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue. Symptoms may linger even after adhering strictly to a gluten-free diet due to ongoing inflammation, damage in the intestines, or other related issues. The positive ANA could signal an autoimmune process, which might be worth discussing more with your rheumatologist.
Regarding your lightheadedness and bruising, these could be related to low iron levels or other deficiencies, which can sometimes occur with celiac disease; however, it appears your vitamin levels are stable. Tinnitus and eye floaters can often be linked to anxiety, but they also warrant further investigation, considering your other symptoms.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep a daily log of symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any triggers or patterns you observe. This will be helpful for your specialists.
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Dietary Focus:
- Continue to adhere strictly to a gluten-free diet and consider consulting a nutritionist specialized in celiac disease to ensure you are meeting your nutritional needs.
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Hydration & Nutrients:
- Stay well-hydrated and consider a multivitamin with minerals (after confirming it’s gluten-free) to support potential deficiencies.
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Home Inspection:
- Follow through with the mold inspection. If remediation is needed, ensure to avoid areas of contamination. Discuss with professionals about safe re-entry to the home.
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Anxiety Management:
- Consider mindfulness practices or breathing exercises, which can be beneficial for managing anxiety related to your health concerns.
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Follow Up:
- When you see your specialists, discuss your symptoms in detail and don’t hesitate to advocate for specific tests if you feel they’re necessary (like checking iron levels).
Reassurance
You are taking proactive steps by seeking help and sharing your experiences. While waiting for appointments can be challenging, documenting everything will empower you during these consultations. If your symptoms worsen or new alarming symptoms arise, consider re-evaluating the urgency of your care needs. You are not alone in this, and there is a path forward.
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