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I have had issues with paralysis and ataxia on and off for the past twelve years. My latest bout of ataxia and gait issues has lasted for the past six months. I have had no GI issues whatsoever but have just been diagnosed with Celiac Disease, which is believed to be the main cause of my ataxia, as it not only attacks the small intestine but can also change the cerebellum and spinal chord. I am throwing this out there in case it is relevant to anyone (there are certainly a number of reasons for ataxias to develop) but if you are looking for a root cause of ataxia and have not been tested for Celiac, it could be worth investigating. The department head of the Celiac Center in Columbia University, Dr. Peter Green, wrote a book, "Celiac Disease: A Hidden Epidemic". My GI doctor recommended this book and I'm so glad she did. My GI doctor has not personally seen my presentation of Celiac... but she knew that it is possible. This book reveals so much about what is known and unknown about gluten ataxia. I am only writing this, again, in hopes it could be helpful to someone who has unexplained reasons for ataxia, which I had for many years (with many visits to many neurologists, rheumatologists, physiatrists etc). I had no idea that I could have no digestive issues whatsoever and be so sick from something I was ingesting. I am hoping my condition improves, though I've only been "gluten free" for the past month. I hope you find answers and that your conditions improve!
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Of our three adult children, only the younger daughter was fond to have Celiac disease in her late thirties. My mom had it, diagnosed in her senior years. After our daughter tested positive, I was tested but it was "inconclusive." But I chose to adapt to the GF lifestyle since I was indeed experiencing GI issues (painful and constant) as well as other problems. Definitely not easy eliminating all wheat products/grains, and it was especially difficult learning to use alternate grains for baking, but I did. Made a huge difference overall. Gone was the 24/7 bloating, gas, stomach and intestinal pain, nausea, impaired appetite and taste, and the overall sense of unwell ness. My husband enjoys what I cook without gluten factors in baked goods and meals. Thicken a sauce/soup? Easy: I use my homemade GF flour blend or a combo of tapioca starch and brown rice flour. Hidden gluten in staples, etc.? Reading labels meticulously and finding alternatives is a must. I make my own taco seasoning. There is so much more involved in a GF lifestyle, but it IS do-able and the benefits make it all worthwhile.
Important note: Read the labels for any supplements/vitamins that you take. I buy only those that have clearly marked on the bottle that it is produced in a facility that does not share equipment or even just produced within the same plant as items that do contain gluten. When in doubt, my daughter and I contact manufacturers directly. Our daughter gets really ill when accidentally exposed to gluten, which can happen even in restaurants that cater to GF diets.
I wish you success on our gluten-free journey😊👍🏼.