![Logo Lockup [placeholder]](https://deepakkejariwal.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Logo-lockup-placeholder.png){kind=logo}
What is coeliac disease testing?
Coeliac disease testing typically starts with a blood test to check for specific antibodies, followed, if positive or clinically indicated, by a gastroscopy with small bowel biopsies to confirm the diagnosis. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition in which eating gluten triggers the immune system to attack the lining of the small bowel, leading to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, fatigue, weight loss, and nutrient deficiencies.
Patients across Newcastle upon Tyne, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland come to Dr Kejariwal for coeliac testing given his specialist interest in coeliac disease and nutritional disorders alongside his 18+ years of consultant experience. Accurate diagnosis matters: coeliac disease is a lifelong condition managed through a strict gluten-free diet, and a confirmed diagnosis ensures you receive the right monitoring and support going forward. Peer-reviewed research has also shown that coeliac disease is associated with a substantially higher prevalence of reflux and IBS-type symptoms compared with the general population, which is one reason a precise diagnosis, rather than assumption, matters so much (PubMed, 2010).
Why testing accuracy matters in 2026
Coeliac disease affects between roughly 1 in 100 and 1 in 200 people, yet it remains significantly under-diagnosed because its symptoms can closely mimic IBS and other digestive conditions. A key factor in accurate testing is that both blood tests and biopsy rely on the small bowel showing an active immune response to gluten, meaning that stopping gluten before testing can lead to a false negative result, a point that continues to catch out patients who have already tried a gluten-free diet before seeking formal diagnosis.
Preparation
For accurate results, you must continue eating gluten in more than one meal a day for at least six weeks before both blood testing and gastroscopy, as stopping gluten beforehand can cause a false negative result. If gastroscopy with biopsy is required, you will also need to fast for around six hours from food and two hours from clear fluids beforehand. Full written instructions are provided with your appointment confirmation.
What happens on the day
01
Arrival & consultation
You will discuss your symptoms and any previous test results with Dr Kejariwal, who will confirm whether blood testing, gastroscopy, or both are appropriate for you.
02
The procedure
If a gastroscopy is required, Dr Kejariwal personally performs the examination, taking small bowel biopsies to check for the characteristic changes of coeliac disease.
03
Recovery
A short rest in the recovery bay follows the procedure, with additional time if sedation has been used.
04
Results, the same day
Dr Kejariwal explains initial findings before you leave, with a written report to follow to you and your GP, and biopsy results typically available within one to two weeks.
Risks and safety
Blood testing carries no procedural risk beyond a standard blood draw. Gastroscopy with biopsy is a well-established, low-risk procedure, with a small chance of mild discomfort, sore throat, or minor bleeding at the biopsy site. Dr Kejariwal will discuss all relevant risks with you as part of the consent process, ensuring you feel fully informed before proceeding.
Your results
Blood test results are typically available within a few days, while biopsy results from gastroscopy usually take one to two weeks. Dr Kejariwal will explain what a positive diagnosis means for you, and if coeliac disease is confirmed, will provide guidance on managing a gluten-free diet and arrange appropriate follow-up, including nutritional support and bone health monitoring where needed.
Frequently asked questions about coeliac disease testing
How is coeliac disease tested for?
Coeliac disease is tested for with a blood test to check for specific antibodies, followed, where positive or clinically indicated, by a gastroscopy with small bowel biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Do I need to be eating gluten before testing?
Yes. You should continue eating gluten in more than one meal a day for at least six weeks before both blood tests and gastroscopy, or results may be inaccurate.
Is a biopsy always needed to diagnose coeliac disease?
A gastroscopy with small bowel biopsy is usually required to confirm the diagnosis, even if blood tests are positive, as it remains the gold standard for diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of coeliac disease?
Common symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and iron or vitamin deficiencies, though some people have few or no symptoms.
Can coeliac disease be cured?
There is currently no cure, but coeliac disease is very effectively managed with a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet, which allows the small bowel to heal and symptoms to resolve.
Usually seen within 1-2 weeks
Referral routes: GP, self-referral or insurer. Bupa recognised, fee assured.
About Dr Deepak Kejariwal
Consultant Gastroenterologist & General Physician, FHEA, with a specialist interest in coeliac disease and nutritional disorders, and 18+ years of consultant experience. Serving Newcastle upon Tyne, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland.