Stomach Cramps

It's 12:30 and I have been awakened by horrible stomach cramps. Here I sit in the bathroom.

The stomach problems are one of the symptoms that made me put two and two together to make me realize I have a gluten intolerance. Gas, bloating, cramps, diarrhea, frequent and urgent bowel movements; I was starting to think people recognized how much I was headed to the bathroom at work. "How do some people with structured jobs do it?" I pondered. If I were a teacher standing in front of students all day, or out on a construction site, I would never be able to make it to the bathroom when I needed.

I know this is part of the withdrawal process. Something I need to go through to get to the other side. I will push through this to lead a healthy life.

Realization

This blog entry might give you a little TMI, but it has to be said.
I have to be honest with myself about my symptoms, so I never turn back.  The last few months I've really started to gather my symptoms together so I can figure out why I feel so crumby.  The list seems so long:

• Cramps
• Bloating
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Irritable mood
• Mood Swings
• Fatigue
• Mind Fog
• Decreased Concentration
• Depression
• Headaches

 Is that a long enough list to see a doctor? I never linked all my symptoms together, thinking headaches were due to caffeine withdrawal, and diarrhea due to eating junk food. Then I started to hear bits and pieces about wheat and gluten being a factor is ALL the above symptoms. Some friends confirmed it. Suggested I go see a doctor for a blood draw.

I scheduled an appointment for this afternoon. As soon as I could. I am not one who likes to wait! I discussed my symptoms with my doctor, and she agreed that a blood draw to check for Celiac and thyroid issues would be best.

I am starting gluten free tomorrow, even through the blood tests won't be back until Monday. Like I said, I don't like to wait!

I know a gluten free diet offers so many benefits, that even if I do not have Celiac Disease, I want to eliminate gluten on my own.

And I am so excited. I can't wait to report my symptoms have dissipated.