Kirk Rightmire Medical Journey
Donation protected
See Kirk's article in the
Katy Christian Magazine | December 2017 / January 2018, online at...
https://issuu.com/katychristian/docs/kcm_1217-web
*Note - understandceliac.org is redirected to celiac.com until website is complete, Monday Nov 11.
Kirk's Story & Symptoms
I have been very sick for the last 10 years worse, 5 years ago. Taking prescription medicine for pain and sleep. Different issues were being treated for symptoms not properly being diagnosed until two years ago. After tens of thousands of dollars in treating symptoms with no answers to the source, I finally had an appointment Nov 1, 2017 with a specialist that treats autoimmune diseases specializing in Celiac.
You are born with this disease but many are diagnosed late in life after damage has been done. Today they test in in early childhood; however, adults are not aware because most symptoms can cause everyday illnesses. Therefore, celiac patients are always treating the symptoms and not the cause.
I want to bring awareness to the 2.5 million people in the US who have not been diagnosed. Prayerfully preventing them from experience the debilitating effects that come later in Life.
Below is a brief definition and a list of most of the symptoms that we experience every day.
Celiac disease
Celiac disease also known as coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that can occur in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. It is estimated to affect 1 in 100 people worldwide. Two and one-half million Americans are undiagnosed and are at risk for long-term health complications.
When people with celiac disease eat gluten (Gliadin a protein found in wheat, rye and barley), their body mounts an immune response that attacks the small intestine. These attacks lead to damage on the villi, small fingerlike projections that line the small intestine, that promote nutrient absorption. When the villi are damaged, nutrients cannot be absorbed properly into the body. Celiac disease can cause irreversible damage.
The issue seems to be genetic in cause and can be passed down through generations. Testing for celiac disease is done through blood tests and endoscopy. It is important for the afflicted person to continue eating gluten while they are tested for celiac disease. When they remove gluten from their diet, their body starts to repair itself, giving a false negative for the tests.
Celiac disease can cause a multitude of problems. The major ones come from malabsorption of nutrients. This can lead to osteoporosis, anemia, and stunted growth. Those who suffer from celiac disease are also more likely to develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma when compared to the general population. The best way to protect yourself and minimize your risk is early diagnosis and strict diet. Below is a list of symptoms.
Acid reflux and heartburn GERD
Gastric Reflux is A Common Symptom of Gluten Exposure. Patients with a conglomeration of gastric symptoms that are directly caused by gluten exposure. Reflux, heartburn, ulcer disease, Barrett’s esophagus, and even hernia are some of the more common diseases I have seen go into remission with the implementation of a TRUE gluten free diet.
Dental Enamel Damage
"Celiac teeth" are more prone to decay, so you have to do a bit more to protect your enamel. It is common for people with Celiac disease to experience white, yellow or brown spots on their teeth's enamel. The enamel may even develop poorly, incur pitting, cracking or banding and appear translucent, according to the Celiac Disease Awareness Campaign. Sometimes, a dentist will be able to pinpoint Celiac disease as the root cause of your dental issues before you are even diagnosed with the condition. Although the dental effects of Celiac are irreversible, your dentist may be able to enhance the appearance of your teeth with veneers or other cosmetic restorations.
Chronic Canker Sores
Recurrent canker sores or mouth ulcers are another nuisance for those with Celiac disease. These painful breakouts appear on the inside of your lips or cheeks, on your tongue, at the base of your gums or on the roof of your mouth. Research has not yet proven what causes them in every case, though it may have something to do with the body's immune system. No matter what the cause, avoid spicy and acidic foods that can irritate your mouth, instead eating simple, plain-flavored meals until your canker sores are not a bother to you anymore. If the sores are especially large or painful, check with your dentist about treating it with a prescribed medication.
Dry Mouth Syndrome
Celiac disease could also lead to dry mouth, the symptoms of which make you more susceptible to tooth decay and cavities because you have less saliva to wash away bacteria and food debris. Drink plenty of water during the day keep your mouth hydrated and keep a humidifier in your room while you sleep to prevent your mouth from drying out.
Loss of bone density (osteoporosis) or softening of bone (osteomalacia).
Celiac Disease Can Lead to Increased Risk of Bone Fractures and Osteoporosis
when you have celiac disease; you are well acquainted with the digestive symptoms of the condition. However, other than the gut and small intestine, celiac disease also affects other important body systems—including the bones and skeleton. Osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become weakened, thin and brittle, can result from celiac disease.
In fact, those who have celiac disease have a 3.5 percent chance of being diagnosed with osteoporosis compared to only .05 percent in the general population. They also have double the risk of bone fractures.
Joint pain
Joint pain and inflammation can be common symptoms for the estimated 3 million adults and children in the U.S. who have celiac disease (CD) and possibly, for millions more who may be sensitive to gluten.
Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH)
Dermatitis herpetiformis is an itchy, blistering skin disease that stems from intestinal gluten intolerance. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees, torso, scalp and buttocks.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is often associated with changes to the lining of the small intestine identical to those of celiac disease, but the disease may not produce noticeable digestive symptoms.
Bloating
Many people who have celiac disease suffer from painful bloating. For days after consuming gluten, the stomach may be distended and filled with gas. This can be quite painful. Many people complain of intestinal pain and the feeling of being “6 months pregnant”. They may also suffer from excessive gas and flatulence. Bloating can be symptoms of other dietary conditions, so look for it in conjunction with the consumption of gluten.
Liver
The liver is one of the most important organs of the body. Its job ranges from detoxification to chemical conversion and energy storage. The liver produces cholesterol, a fat that contributes to normal digestion, nerve, and hormone functioning. It is normal and healthy for the liver to store such fats, but too much fat accumulation can have harmful consequences. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive amounts of fat in liver cells. To be specific, if the amount of fat in the liver contributes to 5%-10% of the liver’s overall weight, the condition is called steatosis or fatty liver.
Spleen (hyposplenism)
Did you know that the spleen plays a leading role in a properly functioning immune system? As the largest organ in your lymphatic system, the spleen spends its time fighting infection and keeping you healthy. Unfortunately, research points to a connection between disorders of the spleen and celiac disease. Moreover, if your immune system is already compromised because of gluten damage to your intestines, a spleen issue leaves you at heightened risk for a variety of infections and autoimmune diseases.
Anemia
Anemia, also referred to iron deficiency anemia, is a decrease of red blood cells due to a lack of iron. Anemia is extremely common, especially in women. Anemia is also common in those with undiagnosed celiac disease. It can have many causes, including iron deficiency, folate deficiency and Vitamin B12 deficiency. These deficiencies can be related to the malabsorption caused by celiac disease. People who have anemia may feel tired, fatigued or weak. They may also have shortness of breath or not be able to exercise normally
Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea is a common symptom of those afflicted with celiac disease. The episodes may be smelly, explosive, and painful. The color of the stool may be pale or white, and typically floats on the surface of the water. Even solid stools may present these conditions. Related symptoms to chronic diarrhea include hemorrhoids. These can occur when there is not enough substance in the stools.
Constipation
While diarrhea is common in celiac sufferers, some people may be afflicted with constipation. This if from the body sluggishly moving the contents of the bowels. The body may be trying to pull all the nutrients possible from the food, as the damaged villi will not work as efficiently. The constipation may be marked by periods of heavy diarrhea as the person consumes gluten. The constipation may cause pain and bloating.
Weight Loss or Gain
Many people who suffer from celiac disease lose weight as their body reacts to the missing nutrients. The diarrhea caused by gluten may stall the absorption of calories from the food, purging the body from its fuel. Conversely, a sufferer may in fact gain weight instead of lose it. Their bodies may be screaming for nutrients, so they eat in excess to achieve proper nutrition. They may have a hard time losing weight until they restrict gluten from their diet.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common complaint of those affected by celiac disease. Undiagnosed celiac suffers may have their bodies suffer from malnutrition caused by absorption issues. Their body will respond with extreme fatigue and malaise in response. They may crave sugary foods and drink excessive caffeine just to stay energized. After diagnosis and the removal of gluten from the diet, fatigue may be the first symptom to be eliminated.
Trouble Concentrating
People who suffer from celiac disease may experience something called a “brain fog” in relation to the consumption of gluten. This symptom exhibits immediately after eating gluten and can persist for days. The feeling that it gives is confusion, trouble concentrating, and short-term memory loss. A sufferer may forget to pick your children up from school, or even forget what they are writing mid-sentence. Thankfully, this symptom does not persist as a person removes gluten from their diet. It may even make them feel finally awake after years of fogginess.
Problems Falling and Staying Asleep
Recent studies have found that patients with celiac disease commonly suffer from disordered sleeping, regardless of if the rest of their diet is healthy or not. Sleep disorders are more common to those suffering from celiac disease vs. the rest of the general population. The disordered sleeping can be shown through an inability to fall asleep, and being unable to stay asleep. The study found that the causes of the inability to sleep well include depression, fatigue, and anxiety.
Neurological
Small fiber neuropathy is the common symptom involving the nervous system. “It typically presents with this can include a tingling sensation in the hands and feet, ranging from mild to “fallen asleep”. Numbness, or painful burning, stinging or electric-shock like sensations, usually in the arms or legs, but sometimes [in] the torso or face,” Small fiber neuropathy can also cause dizziness or feeling faint when standing up, sexual dysfunction, abnormal sweating, bladder symptoms, hair loss or skin changes. Many celiac sufferers exhibit neuropathic symptoms. Problems with the neuropathic system can affect gross and fine motor control and sensory nerves.
Depression
Unfortunately, depression and suicide rates are higher in people with celiac disease. Studies have found that even eating a gluten free diet, the rates of depression are much higher than the general population. One study found a connection between disordered eating and depression in women who suffer from celiac disease. As they closely monitor their foods for gluten, disordered and restrictive eating can develop. For suicide risk, it seems that once diagnosed and with dietary changes, the suicide risk is greatly reduced.
Respiratory Asthma
Asthma may represent another of the conditions that often appear in concert with celiac disease. The common respiratory ailment, which affects nearly 8 percent of the U.S. population, occurs more frequently in celiacs than it does in the general population. Symptoms can be allergies, asthma, and lung disease.
Type 1 diabetes
The estimated prevalence of celiac disease in patients with type 1 diabetes is approximately 6%. Most patients with both conditions have asymptomatic celiac disease, or symptoms that may be confused for symptoms of their diabetes. For this reason, screening for celiac disease is recommended after a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, as well as counseling for the signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes after a celiac disease diagnosis.
Thyroid disease
A significant number of patients with thyroid disease also have celiac disease The prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease in patients with celiac disease is four times greater than that in the general population, and this may be due to the common genetic predisposition
Katy Christian Magazine | December 2017 / January 2018, online at...
https://issuu.com/katychristian/docs/kcm_1217-web
*Note - understandceliac.org is redirected to celiac.com until website is complete, Monday Nov 11.
Kirk's Story & Symptoms
I have been very sick for the last 10 years worse, 5 years ago. Taking prescription medicine for pain and sleep. Different issues were being treated for symptoms not properly being diagnosed until two years ago. After tens of thousands of dollars in treating symptoms with no answers to the source, I finally had an appointment Nov 1, 2017 with a specialist that treats autoimmune diseases specializing in Celiac.
You are born with this disease but many are diagnosed late in life after damage has been done. Today they test in in early childhood; however, adults are not aware because most symptoms can cause everyday illnesses. Therefore, celiac patients are always treating the symptoms and not the cause.
I want to bring awareness to the 2.5 million people in the US who have not been diagnosed. Prayerfully preventing them from experience the debilitating effects that come later in Life.
Below is a brief definition and a list of most of the symptoms that we experience every day.
Celiac disease
Celiac disease also known as coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that can occur in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. It is estimated to affect 1 in 100 people worldwide. Two and one-half million Americans are undiagnosed and are at risk for long-term health complications.
When people with celiac disease eat gluten (Gliadin a protein found in wheat, rye and barley), their body mounts an immune response that attacks the small intestine. These attacks lead to damage on the villi, small fingerlike projections that line the small intestine, that promote nutrient absorption. When the villi are damaged, nutrients cannot be absorbed properly into the body. Celiac disease can cause irreversible damage.
The issue seems to be genetic in cause and can be passed down through generations. Testing for celiac disease is done through blood tests and endoscopy. It is important for the afflicted person to continue eating gluten while they are tested for celiac disease. When they remove gluten from their diet, their body starts to repair itself, giving a false negative for the tests.
Celiac disease can cause a multitude of problems. The major ones come from malabsorption of nutrients. This can lead to osteoporosis, anemia, and stunted growth. Those who suffer from celiac disease are also more likely to develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma when compared to the general population. The best way to protect yourself and minimize your risk is early diagnosis and strict diet. Below is a list of symptoms.
Acid reflux and heartburn GERD
Gastric Reflux is A Common Symptom of Gluten Exposure. Patients with a conglomeration of gastric symptoms that are directly caused by gluten exposure. Reflux, heartburn, ulcer disease, Barrett’s esophagus, and even hernia are some of the more common diseases I have seen go into remission with the implementation of a TRUE gluten free diet.
Dental Enamel Damage
"Celiac teeth" are more prone to decay, so you have to do a bit more to protect your enamel. It is common for people with Celiac disease to experience white, yellow or brown spots on their teeth's enamel. The enamel may even develop poorly, incur pitting, cracking or banding and appear translucent, according to the Celiac Disease Awareness Campaign. Sometimes, a dentist will be able to pinpoint Celiac disease as the root cause of your dental issues before you are even diagnosed with the condition. Although the dental effects of Celiac are irreversible, your dentist may be able to enhance the appearance of your teeth with veneers or other cosmetic restorations.
Chronic Canker Sores
Recurrent canker sores or mouth ulcers are another nuisance for those with Celiac disease. These painful breakouts appear on the inside of your lips or cheeks, on your tongue, at the base of your gums or on the roof of your mouth. Research has not yet proven what causes them in every case, though it may have something to do with the body's immune system. No matter what the cause, avoid spicy and acidic foods that can irritate your mouth, instead eating simple, plain-flavored meals until your canker sores are not a bother to you anymore. If the sores are especially large or painful, check with your dentist about treating it with a prescribed medication.
Dry Mouth Syndrome
Celiac disease could also lead to dry mouth, the symptoms of which make you more susceptible to tooth decay and cavities because you have less saliva to wash away bacteria and food debris. Drink plenty of water during the day keep your mouth hydrated and keep a humidifier in your room while you sleep to prevent your mouth from drying out.
Loss of bone density (osteoporosis) or softening of bone (osteomalacia).
Celiac Disease Can Lead to Increased Risk of Bone Fractures and Osteoporosis
when you have celiac disease; you are well acquainted with the digestive symptoms of the condition. However, other than the gut and small intestine, celiac disease also affects other important body systems—including the bones and skeleton. Osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become weakened, thin and brittle, can result from celiac disease.
In fact, those who have celiac disease have a 3.5 percent chance of being diagnosed with osteoporosis compared to only .05 percent in the general population. They also have double the risk of bone fractures.
Joint pain
Joint pain and inflammation can be common symptoms for the estimated 3 million adults and children in the U.S. who have celiac disease (CD) and possibly, for millions more who may be sensitive to gluten.
Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH)
Dermatitis herpetiformis is an itchy, blistering skin disease that stems from intestinal gluten intolerance. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees, torso, scalp and buttocks.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is often associated with changes to the lining of the small intestine identical to those of celiac disease, but the disease may not produce noticeable digestive symptoms.
Bloating
Many people who have celiac disease suffer from painful bloating. For days after consuming gluten, the stomach may be distended and filled with gas. This can be quite painful. Many people complain of intestinal pain and the feeling of being “6 months pregnant”. They may also suffer from excessive gas and flatulence. Bloating can be symptoms of other dietary conditions, so look for it in conjunction with the consumption of gluten.
Liver
The liver is one of the most important organs of the body. Its job ranges from detoxification to chemical conversion and energy storage. The liver produces cholesterol, a fat that contributes to normal digestion, nerve, and hormone functioning. It is normal and healthy for the liver to store such fats, but too much fat accumulation can have harmful consequences. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive amounts of fat in liver cells. To be specific, if the amount of fat in the liver contributes to 5%-10% of the liver’s overall weight, the condition is called steatosis or fatty liver.
Spleen (hyposplenism)
Did you know that the spleen plays a leading role in a properly functioning immune system? As the largest organ in your lymphatic system, the spleen spends its time fighting infection and keeping you healthy. Unfortunately, research points to a connection between disorders of the spleen and celiac disease. Moreover, if your immune system is already compromised because of gluten damage to your intestines, a spleen issue leaves you at heightened risk for a variety of infections and autoimmune diseases.
Anemia
Anemia, also referred to iron deficiency anemia, is a decrease of red blood cells due to a lack of iron. Anemia is extremely common, especially in women. Anemia is also common in those with undiagnosed celiac disease. It can have many causes, including iron deficiency, folate deficiency and Vitamin B12 deficiency. These deficiencies can be related to the malabsorption caused by celiac disease. People who have anemia may feel tired, fatigued or weak. They may also have shortness of breath or not be able to exercise normally
Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea is a common symptom of those afflicted with celiac disease. The episodes may be smelly, explosive, and painful. The color of the stool may be pale or white, and typically floats on the surface of the water. Even solid stools may present these conditions. Related symptoms to chronic diarrhea include hemorrhoids. These can occur when there is not enough substance in the stools.
Constipation
While diarrhea is common in celiac sufferers, some people may be afflicted with constipation. This if from the body sluggishly moving the contents of the bowels. The body may be trying to pull all the nutrients possible from the food, as the damaged villi will not work as efficiently. The constipation may be marked by periods of heavy diarrhea as the person consumes gluten. The constipation may cause pain and bloating.
Weight Loss or Gain
Many people who suffer from celiac disease lose weight as their body reacts to the missing nutrients. The diarrhea caused by gluten may stall the absorption of calories from the food, purging the body from its fuel. Conversely, a sufferer may in fact gain weight instead of lose it. Their bodies may be screaming for nutrients, so they eat in excess to achieve proper nutrition. They may have a hard time losing weight until they restrict gluten from their diet.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common complaint of those affected by celiac disease. Undiagnosed celiac suffers may have their bodies suffer from malnutrition caused by absorption issues. Their body will respond with extreme fatigue and malaise in response. They may crave sugary foods and drink excessive caffeine just to stay energized. After diagnosis and the removal of gluten from the diet, fatigue may be the first symptom to be eliminated.
Trouble Concentrating
People who suffer from celiac disease may experience something called a “brain fog” in relation to the consumption of gluten. This symptom exhibits immediately after eating gluten and can persist for days. The feeling that it gives is confusion, trouble concentrating, and short-term memory loss. A sufferer may forget to pick your children up from school, or even forget what they are writing mid-sentence. Thankfully, this symptom does not persist as a person removes gluten from their diet. It may even make them feel finally awake after years of fogginess.
Problems Falling and Staying Asleep
Recent studies have found that patients with celiac disease commonly suffer from disordered sleeping, regardless of if the rest of their diet is healthy or not. Sleep disorders are more common to those suffering from celiac disease vs. the rest of the general population. The disordered sleeping can be shown through an inability to fall asleep, and being unable to stay asleep. The study found that the causes of the inability to sleep well include depression, fatigue, and anxiety.
Neurological
Small fiber neuropathy is the common symptom involving the nervous system. “It typically presents with this can include a tingling sensation in the hands and feet, ranging from mild to “fallen asleep”. Numbness, or painful burning, stinging or electric-shock like sensations, usually in the arms or legs, but sometimes [in] the torso or face,” Small fiber neuropathy can also cause dizziness or feeling faint when standing up, sexual dysfunction, abnormal sweating, bladder symptoms, hair loss or skin changes. Many celiac sufferers exhibit neuropathic symptoms. Problems with the neuropathic system can affect gross and fine motor control and sensory nerves.
Depression
Unfortunately, depression and suicide rates are higher in people with celiac disease. Studies have found that even eating a gluten free diet, the rates of depression are much higher than the general population. One study found a connection between disordered eating and depression in women who suffer from celiac disease. As they closely monitor their foods for gluten, disordered and restrictive eating can develop. For suicide risk, it seems that once diagnosed and with dietary changes, the suicide risk is greatly reduced.
Respiratory Asthma
Asthma may represent another of the conditions that often appear in concert with celiac disease. The common respiratory ailment, which affects nearly 8 percent of the U.S. population, occurs more frequently in celiacs than it does in the general population. Symptoms can be allergies, asthma, and lung disease.
Type 1 diabetes
The estimated prevalence of celiac disease in patients with type 1 diabetes is approximately 6%. Most patients with both conditions have asymptomatic celiac disease, or symptoms that may be confused for symptoms of their diabetes. For this reason, screening for celiac disease is recommended after a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, as well as counseling for the signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes after a celiac disease diagnosis.
Thyroid disease
A significant number of patients with thyroid disease also have celiac disease The prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease in patients with celiac disease is four times greater than that in the general population, and this may be due to the common genetic predisposition
Organiser
Kirk Rightmire
Organiser
Katy, TX
