क्या मुझे अपने बच्चों का सीलिएक रोग के लिए अभी टेस्ट करवाना चाहिए या इंतज़ार करना चाहिए जब तक वे ठोस खाना शुरू नहीं कर देते?

Testing children for celiac disease when there’s a strong family history can be a wise consideration but the timing is important. Celiac disease is triggered by the consumption of gluten-containing foods, so testing before your children have been introduced to solids may not give you clear answers. Generally, testing involves checking specific antibodies in the blood, and these markers will only be present after gluten exposure. Introducing gluten gradually when your child is around 6 months old and when you start solids is usually the point where you might observe potential symptoms, like digestive discomfort or growth issues, a sign that could suggest testing. However, if your child is asymptomatic, there’s no urgent need to test right away. Monitoring them for any signs that suggest celiac after gluten introduction is often a practical first step unless there’s a specific medical reason or symptom prompting earlier testing. Besides, since the genetic predisposition for celiac can be persistent, family history makes it reasonable to assume a level of vigilance even if initial tests are negative. Ensuring a discussion with your pediatrician before making decisions on testing is crucial because they can provide guidance tailored to your children’s particular circumstances and symptoms. Remember, a positive family background doesn’t always mean that your children will definitely develop celiac, but being informed helps.