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Migraine Mystery Solved: Gluten Was Culprit
1 Feb
Summary
- Daily migraines for two decades were linked to undiagnosed coeliac disease.
- Painkillers were a daily breakfast routine for two decades before diagnosis.
- A late diagnosis meant years of managing symptoms instead of the cause.
Suzanne Kelleher lived with debilitating headaches and migraines for two decades, taking painkillers daily as a preventative measure. Her symptoms were consistently attributed to stress, eye strain, or work, delaying a proper diagnosis. At 38, she was diagnosed with coeliac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten. This discovery explained her lifelong struggle with pain, which significantly impacted her ability to work and live.
Her diagnosis came a decade ago when she moved to Brisbane and experienced unusual coldness, fatigue, and tingling in her feet. These symptoms, coupled with a doctor's advice to remove gluten, led to a dramatic improvement. Within weeks, her migraines ceased, and her energy returned, revealing the extent of her previous unwellness.
Suzanne's journey highlights a common diagnostic delay, especially for women, as coeliac disease symptoms can be varied and unrelated to digestion. She emphasizes the importance of questioning persistent symptoms and advocating for tests like the coeliac screen, especially when other chronic issues are being investigated. Her experience underscores the emotional and physical toll of delayed diagnosis and the lifelong commitment required for managing a gluten-free diet.
