Next visit

Davina is followed up in the gastroenterology clinic and you do not see her again there. However, several months later, you see Davina’s parents in the corridor in children’s outpatients. They are waiting for a follow up appointment to see the gastroenterologist and dietician again.

They look very pleased to see you. Davina has grown well on the new diet, and has now nearly caught up with the ‘centile she had been on before she became ill. At first she did not like the new foods she was being offered, and they wondered if they were doing the right thing. However the positive biopsy reminded them of the importance of sticking to the diet.

They first noticed a difference about a week after starting the new diet. She became less irritable, more playful and happier. Then there was a change in her stool, which became firmer and less smelly. Then she started gaining weight – even her cheeks are fuller now.

They particularly thank you for your timely referral to the specialist. They have joined a Facebook forum for parents of children with coeliac. Many have stories of delayed diagnosis, unnecessary tests or useless diets.