How to Test for Celiac Disease (Symptoms, Blood Tests & What to Do Next)
If you’ve been struggling with bloating, fatigue, brain fog, or ongoing gut issues and feel like you’re not getting clear answers, you’re not alone. Many people are told they have IBS without further investigation but in some cases, there may be something more going on.
One of the most important steps in understanding your symptoms is knowing how to properly test for celiac disease.
Common symptoms of celiac disease
Symptoms can vary from person to person, but often include:
Bloating and digestive discomfort
Ongoing gut issues (often labelled as IBS)
Fatigue and low energy
Brain fog
Skin issues (such as rashes or acne)
Nutrient deficiencies
Anxiety or low mood
How to test for celiac disease
The first step is a simple blood test through your GP. This test looks for specific antibodies that your body produces in response to gluten.
Important: Don’t remove gluten before testing
This is one of the most common mistakes.
If you stop eating gluten before being tested, your results may come back false negative — even if you do have celiac disease. This can delay diagnosis and keep you stuck without clear answers.
If you suspect celiac disease, it’s important to continue eating gluten until all testing is complete.
What happens after the blood test?
If your blood test suggests celiac disease, your GP may refer you for further testing, such as an endoscopy.
This allows doctors to look at the lining of your gut and confirm whether damage has occurred.
Common mistakes to avoid
Removing gluten too early
Ignoring ongoing symptoms
Accepting an IBS diagnosis without further investigation
Trying to self-diagnose without proper testing
What to do next
If this is something you’re concerned about:
Speak to your GP and request testing
Keep a note of your symptoms
Pay attention to how your body feels after eating
Getting tested can feel like a big step, but it’s an important one in understanding your body and getting the right support.
Final thoughts
You don’t have to keep guessing or second-guessing your symptoms. There is always a reason your body feels the way it does and with the right guidance, you can start to understand it.
Still unsure if it’s IBS or something more?
If you’ve been told it’s IBS but something doesn’t feel quite right, I’ve created a free guide to help you explore whether it could be something more.