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| Photo Credit: QSR Magazine |
I am going to start a new series on gluten intolerance and gluten-free eating. Long story short, I've had chronic migraines, tension headaches, and muscular tension in my neck and shoulders since I was a teenager. I started experiencing severe numbness in my left arm six years ago (though it has improved significantly with treatment). About four weeks ago, I started feeling mild numbness in my torso and I am now starting to feel a little bit in my left leg as well.
I've explored many tests and treatments over the years from acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, chiropractic care, MRI of brain and cervical spine, sound echo of brain, EMG of left arm, physical therapy, various prescription drugs, night guard (for teeth grinding), trigger point injections, facet joint injections in the cervical spine, and plasma rich platelet injections in cervical spine - to name a few [sarcastic].
Suffice to say, nothing has "cured" me. And, I am still planning on seeing a TMJ specialist and proceeding with Botox treatment with my new neurologist (medical, not cosmetic).
A couple weeks ago, I was casually text messaging my friend and colleague, Anha. The topic of gluten intolerance came up (as she is now gluten-free to manage chronic pain she had for two years straight). She suggested that I get tested.
After some initial research, I was shocked at how many of my existing symptoms, and additional ones, are associated with gluten intolerance. My chiropractor (who also practices functional, holistic medicine) had mentioned nutrition on a few occasions since I have been receiving nerve and spinal treatment from him for the last four years.
So, with the very recent encouragement of Anha and my doctor, I decided to proceed with the blood test (which is not cheap, by the way).
Two days ago, I got the results. I tested positive. So, I am officially gluten intolerant.
