Shoertness of breath and gastrointestinal problems

[pilgrimchaser]

I've been having shortness of breath for a long time.  Initial tests showed low oxygen when exercising but all the pulmonary tests and heart tests after showed nothing.  My condition has gradually worsened but still no diagnosis.  Last November I was given Advair which made everything worse.  I eventually lost my voice but have recovered.  I am still hoarse, my throat and head and nose congested with excess mucous.  My upper back started to hurt  and seems to be sore and painful. Now I have bad stomach cramps, gas, loose bowels and unintentional weight loss. Still no diagnosis and no treatment.  Any suggestions of what to do next?

[Red_Star]

The first step in diagnosing celiac's disease are blood tests. I had this done and my blood tests were for tissue transglutaminase antibody (tTG) and an immunoglobulin A (IgA) test. I was negative thankfully. I like gluten. :)  It is possible to have Hashimoto's with negative antibodies. It is not as common but it does occur.  An FNA biopsy is the definite test if antibodies are not present.

I've read as people get older sometimes they need less thyroid medication than they needed before. It may be you are taking a bit too much thyroxine which could be causing a few of your symptoms perhaps. Just another thought. :)

[pilgrimchaser]

Also, I take Vitamins D and it does help.  I haven't noticed help so much with the mucous but I have a tad more energy.  What is the test for celiac.  I think it is the same test the author of the book my chiropracter recommended said to use for Hashimotos and that it can be purchased online.  I'll have to look it up.

[pilgrimchaser]

Thanks so much.  I know I have an intolerance to malt.  It gives me flu-like symptoms.  I need to start checking the malt in my diet again.  I had hypothyroidism from the time I was 18 to recently (I am 70 now.)  I guess as we age our thyroid levels off or gets higher of something.)  My chiropracter suggested that Hashimotos can give good readings and then give bad readings so not to rule out Hashimotos.  

[Red_Star]

Oh i forgot to add, check vitamin D levels. That is a cause of excess mucus and bone pain.

[Red_Star]

Shortness of breath, abdominal cramping and excessive mucus are all listed symptoms of a possible food allergy or food intolerance. Allergies show up on labs tests, intolerances do not. An elimination diet is how to pinpoint food intolerance/s.  An autoimmune disease called celiac disease should be ruled out. Also test for thyroid hormones. A few ideas to go with.