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Irritable About My IBS?
Not! I could have worse conditions handed to me by my ancestors. This one
happens to come to me courtesy of my mother's side of the family. She has
IBS and from the sound of it, her father had IBS too. I have the type of IBS
where constipation is NOT a word in my vocabulary - even when 9-months
pregnant. That's right, I have what they call "diarrhea predominant" IBS. I
call it "never far from a toilet" syndrome.
It used to be a real drag, but I learned rather quickly what works and
doesn't work when I'm in situations where I need a little over the
counter help (from my friend, Imodium AD), like when I'm traveling or going through an extra stressful time. One of my other vulnerable times is when I eat out at parties or restaurants and may be eating foods richer than my gastric constitution is used to. Even then, I've figured out what to order and avoid to keep myself on track.
Writing the book, TELL ME WHAT TO EAT IF I HAVE IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME, helped a lot too. I wrote it for all three types of IBS (constipation predominant IBS, diarrhea predominant IBS and the type that has both constipation and diarrhea.)
But after figuring out what my personal IBS triggers are and learning the "ins" and "outs" of IBS (pardon the pun), I have been doing great.
The good news is that IBS doesn't increase your risk of colon cancer and it
usually doesn't get worse as time goes on like many other conditions.
Knowledge is power and the more you know about IBS, the better off you'll
be. Check out this Eating With IBS video I did for WebMD and tell me what you think.
~~Elaine
Related Topics: IBS: Herbal Help?, Quiz: Could you have IBS?
Technorati Tags: IBS, irritablebowelsyndrome, constipation, diarrhea
happens to come to me courtesy of my mother's side of the family. She has
IBS and from the sound of it, her father had IBS too. I have the type of IBS
where constipation is NOT a word in my vocabulary - even when 9-months
pregnant. That's right, I have what they call "diarrhea predominant" IBS. I
call it "never far from a toilet" syndrome.
It used to be a real drag, but I learned rather quickly what works and
doesn't work when I'm in situations where I need a little over the
counter help (from my friend, Imodium AD), like when I'm traveling or going through an extra stressful time. One of my other vulnerable times is when I eat out at parties or restaurants and may be eating foods richer than my gastric constitution is used to. Even then, I've figured out what to order and avoid to keep myself on track.
Writing the book, TELL ME WHAT TO EAT IF I HAVE IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME, helped a lot too. I wrote it for all three types of IBS (constipation predominant IBS, diarrhea predominant IBS and the type that has both constipation and diarrhea.)
But after figuring out what my personal IBS triggers are and learning the "ins" and "outs" of IBS (pardon the pun), I have been doing great.
The good news is that IBS doesn't increase your risk of colon cancer and it
usually doesn't get worse as time goes on like many other conditions.
Knowledge is power and the more you know about IBS, the better off you'll
be. Check out this Eating With IBS video I did for WebMD and tell me what you think.
~~Elaine
Related Topics: IBS: Herbal Help?, Quiz: Could you have IBS?
Technorati Tags: IBS, irritablebowelsyndrome, constipation, diarrhea
113 Comments:
I read this blog today and felt okay, I'm not at all relived, I am so embarssed by this, I suffer from the same problem- day to day and somedays it's okay and other days it's worse. I can't even enjoy brekfast in the mornings, coffee or any cereals, I immediately come down with the symptoms and I can't even hold it, as embarssing as it may sound, I've had a few acciedents, I felt like an infant, no one knows who this is until they suffer and experience it. I also am so embarssed because the odor is horrible, I run everyone out of the bathrooms and that's usually the talk of the day.. Wow- who went in there,
What do we do...
I read your blog today and have suffered with diarrehea prominent IBS for four years now. I can be fine all day and then get in the car to go somewhere and 5 minutes in the car it hits. It dosen't have a very good patience level either LOL. I can go for days and not have it bother me and then all of a sudden it hits and always at the most inconvient times. I have been taking Imodium Ad but was wondering how much is too much and if there are any long term effects to taking it.
i think it it terrible that zelnorm is being taken off the market. After almost 3 years of suffering and every test known to man, i finally got a diagnosis. and then what, the medication that brings relief will no longer be available. this is absurb. maybe the drug companies should have done more tests to ensure the safety of this and other drugs. FDA I hope you are listrening.
My Dr. said that Imodium is COMPLETELY safe and there is no harm in taking it. He said I could take up to 8 a day and be fine. I ususally only need 1 though.
I just found out I have IBS.. I feel like a prisoner in my home. I have both, one week I can't go then the next I better not leave the house.. This is making me very depressed. Thank god I am not working right now, not sure how I could handle a job right now. My husband asks me why I never feel good(sometimes I just wish he could go though this then maybe he would understand). I am now to the point were I don't want to drive alone in case I have an attack. it is so nice to see I am not the only one suffering from this I can read about others..
I finally found a miracle drug that works for me and now they take zelnorm off the market. I have 3 months of pills and I will continue to use them and i hope by then they put it back on the market. I understand they might make it a hardship drug, I hope this is true. For me the risk outway the pain.
I understand what these folks on this blog are saying about the diarrehea prominent IBS. I have had it for about 6 or 7 years, starting in my mid 50's. Last yr, I had to get my gall bladder removed and it got even worse! I too have had accidents as this is so explosive and have to always locate the bathroom whereever I go. I wanted to retire soon and substitute teach, but there was no way since I had to go "right now" and cant leave kids alone to go. I couldnt still be working if I were not a guidance counselor and could leave at any moment and get to the restroom.
After reading a lot about this recently, I decided to give soluble fiber a try. For two weeks, I am taking two Equate (Walmart brand) Fiber Therapy caplets three times a day, about 30 minutes before eating with 8 oz water to make my colon less spastic, and it is working. Have been having the first solid (or almost solid) bowel movements I have had in years in the last couple of weeks. I have been a slave to this for too long to be only 62, and since I am very active (bicycle, kayak/canoe camp, etc)This has really put a cramp in my style. It had starting dictating my life. Try this... it will help you. I feel as I have been freed from slavery. I promise. Good luck.
I was diagnosed with IBS earlier this year. It usually only hits in the morning. I have to run to the toilet 2 times before I leave for work. As I drive I breath calmly so I can make it to work with out an accident. It is so embarassing. Now I am at a point in my life where I want to have a child, but I am too worried about having to run to the bathroom with an infant in my arms. I am at a loss and I don't know what to do. I have tried meds and they worked for a while, but I can't take anything during pregnancy. I noticed that my IBS increased after having my gallbladder removed. Boy...I wish I knew this would be a side effect, I would have left it in my body. It is nice to know that I am not alone!
I just saw a program on the DiscoveryHealth channel about this, so you may want to check out their web site. I can't recall what the dr did to fix it, but it worked
I have IBS since I am a child but it got worst these last 7 years. It makes my life miserable because I always have the urge to go to the bathroom while I am outside (Once I had an embarrassing incident so I know it happens!). I always try to avoid outdoor activities with friends and family and usually meet them at restaurants for lunch (because it is less busy and I will not have to wait for the bathroom in case of emergency). It is really frustrating because I have to find excuses to not do things with them; especially while I am offered to go to public events like shows,festivals,fairs,shopping, busy restaurants... My husband understands but I can see that he would like me to do more with him. I feel lonely because I can't improvise a thing with my friends and/or him! For example, if we go out with some friends, I am always worry that everybody wants to have a drink afterward. I heard about a medication called Colestid, I may try it...Do you know if it works?
Wow, thank you for sharing about IBS. I have the kind you do. It comes with my Fibromyalgia and it is more diahrrhea than constiputation. My doctor gave me this wonderful little drug to take with my Protonix and Gas-X pills that interacts with them. Unless I have an incredibly stressful day, I have found the miracle of almost being regular.
Just wondering if any of you have been tested for Celiac disease. IBS and Celiac disease have very similar symptoms. I have celiac, and I was diagnosed after years of suffering from diarrhea.
Just a thought!
I suffered for four years with all the symptoms you have described. I know where every public restroom is. I went to the bathroom between 8-10 times a day. I thought I would have to call an ambulance the pain was so severe. I've seen many specialist who prescribed several different medications. I changed my diet and cut out coffee. The doctors said that stress was a cause but the symptons were stressing me out. I felt depressed because it was running my life.
Well I am happy to say that I am almost cured. After being hospitalized because the symptoms were so bad, I started eating Activia yogurt once a day. After ten days, I had my first normal bowel movement and things started improving. I have my moments but it is nothing in comparision to the hell I went through. I wrote to Dannon to thank them. I still can't believe that one little yogurt a day it what helped me and not one doctor suggested it.
I suffered for four years with all the symptoms that have been described. I can tell you where every public restroom is. I have seen several doctors been prescribed many medications. I changed my diet and cut out coffee. I had stress because of my condition but my condition made me more stressed. I was going the bathroom eight to ten times a day. At times I thought I would have to call and ambulance because the pain was so bad. For those of you that have it I know you understand.
Well I am happy to say that I am pretty much cured. Three months ago, I started eating activia yogurt once a day and after about two weeks my "stomach issues" went away. I am not cured but the difference is amazing. I even wrote to Dannon because I couldn't believe it. Four years of hell and not one doctor suggested it.
Someone please tell me if I sound as if I have IBS...my stomach starts cramping( feels like menstrual cramps) at the same time every evening..until I go to sleep...then when I wake up I'm fine all day and then it starts again that evening. Do I have IBS?
My doctor told me I have IBS because every test came back negative. It starts up if too much time passes after a meal (a few hours), my stomach fills up with gas, I get back pains, my stomach bloats. I took Bentyl which helped with the attacks but made me dizzy. Then someone suggested one Fibercon with each meal, this helped for a while. If I eat more it does help with the attacks but I have to eat all the time. I am so sick of this. Now I am pregnant and the attacks are worse and I can't take my medicine. Anyone have a similar situation.
I am a 22 year old female and I had my galbladder removed when i was just 6 years old. I didn't even know that IBS is a side effect of having your galbladder removed. Having my galbladder removed along with my spleen was mandatory due to the fact that I have Heriditary Spherocytosis. If anyone knows a good method to relieving the IBS because I have tried everything could someone please post a comment and let me know!! It is awful to have this at such a young age and I can't even enjoy taking my daughter out anywhere because I always have to go to the bathroom and I just want to go one day without having to use the bathroom!!
I, too, have had many accidents and it is very embarrassing. At work, the mall, while grocery shopping, and it is triggered by stress, at least most of the time. If any one finds a cure or workable treatment, please, let me know. I inherited mine, my mother's family all had it. My gall bladder was removed during the 1980's and it got worse. I went through a nasty divorce in 1976 which did not help at all. Then I remarried, bad mistake. This one is a verbal enemy. This triggers all kinds of bad cramps and stomach problems.
I had my gall bladder removed when my newborn was 3 weeks old the pain hit me all at once. After getting it removed I have been constipated and if I don't go to the bathroom right then I throw up instantly. Sometimes I go to the bathroom, can't get it out fast enough and throw up at the same time. Please let me know is anyone else having this problem. Help me please. If so, what can be done about it. I'm scare to leave the house.
My 6 year old child has has loose stools for as long as I can remember, and has many accidents. Sometimes several a day. Can children have IBS??
I too have suffered from IBS for several years. A lifesaver for me has been Nortriptilyn. My doctor put me a low dose of this daily. It is an anti depressant. But I take a low enough dose that there are no mood altering effects. But this drug's side effect is that is causes constipation. So it has really helped calm my body down!
I am a 27 year old woman who has been suffering with what the doctors say is IBS. For something that isn't life-threatening, it sure depresses the hell out of me. I've had the symptoms for it for several years but they weren't that bad. I had my gallbladder removed back in Sep. of last year and it hasn't gotten better, and because the doctors can't really pin-point what it is, my family think that I have a mental problem-that it's all in my head, but I know better because I am the one experiencing this. I'm constipated for almost a week sometimes and then the chronic diarrhea happens. It's gotten to the point that Imodium nor the prescription drug Questran is working for my diarrhea. I have severe stomach cramps that aren't relieved by a bowel movement, like the doctors say. The cramps get so bad sometimes that I black out or become very dizzy and become exhausted. I have mucous in the bowel quite often and the doctors offer no help. The meds that they try on me cause more problems than it all is worth, so basicly they've left me to suffer or to figure something out on my own, which has become frustrating and very depressing. I've thought about suicide because I can't imagine living my life like this. I am a single parent of 3 and that thought is selfish of me, but sometimes I think to myself that I can't be much of a mother to my kids when I'm feeling like I'm dying most of the time and too focused on relief of my situation, and to make matters worse, I have no one to talk to about it-no support of no kind. My family thinks I'm crazy and wants to put me in a psychiatric hospital AGAIN! Can someone offer me some words of encouragement, please. One thing I do know is that I do have the Lord on my side because had it not been for Him, I probably would be in another "hospital" or somewhere ending my own life. Sad, but true!
Is there any info for my 10 year old daughter? She is currently on Bentyl (spelling) 2x's a day. Helps a little but not completely. I really wish I could find a diet for her. Thaks for your help.
I was diagnosed with IBS when I was about 5 yo (I'm now 22). It is possible for children to have it. I'm sorry your daughter has it. I took Bentyl for years, but it never really helped. The things that helped me most as a child with IBS was knowing 1)the pain would eventually stop and 2)if it got bad enough my parents would take me to the hospital. I remember being so scared that I would always feel so terribly and no one would be able to help me. When your daughter gets sick, take the time to sit with her and tell her it won't last forever. Let her know you'll take her to the hospital if it gets unbearable. My parents always offered, but I never went. I just needed to know if things got bad enough, there was a plan. Good luck with your daughter.
I'm not sure I have it, but between my 2nd and 3rd children, I had my gall bladder removed and since then have had really bad diarhea and nasty gas. It's embarrassing. When I feel gas coming, I try to go outside or whatever so I don't stink the place up. It's so embarrassing. today I had to run to the bathroom about 5 times. I have had accidents, too. Does this sound like IBS? My dr said it could be, but that was 5+ years ago and she didn't want to put me on anything since I might get preggo again. Now that I'm done, if I can get some meds, I want them! At any rate, I feel your pain!
I'm SO RELIEVED that there MIGHT be a solution for these symptoms. I did NOT know that children could get IBS, aside from other gastrointestinal diseases, which would be scary and shameful as a child. As a 49 yr. old who had IBS before getting my gall bladder out, the surgeon said it would not take that away, so I was warned. I wish that I would've tried altering my DIET FIRST, since I'm having to anyway now. For this woman who has been to the psych. hosp..with 3 kids...OY!! I do feel for you,dear; I come from a family with mental health issues, and was on medications for 15 yrs. to help an anxiety-related chronic severe hives, which would just occur randomly- no proven allergy. I was put on Imipramine for 15 yrs, it was the only "antihistimine/antidepressant" that really helped prevent outbreaks. Drs. would never let me try anything else, because this doped me out, slowed me down on jobs, but this form of hives is so rare, they'd say "if you've found something thats working, dont change it!" I just recently cut way back on the meds. 2 months ago, to test if I still have the hives, and as I tapered it off slowly, the hives is finally gone!! It has been such a huge relief..not only is my mind and memory incredibly clearer, but they were giving me intensive hot flashes and sweats, clear from age 32!! Well, to be off that heavy dose of antidepressant, it was probably helping to stop me up some (for years, Ive gone back/forth with constipation/diarrhea, which some foods or drinks could trigger). I've had to go without coffee for a few years now- still try to have one cup of decaf in morning w/milk. Even taken with an antacid, I can still get set off to the john. PLEASE--as I JUST FOUND, there are many of us out there, some FINDING RELIEF!! NOT ALL are DRUGS, NOT ALL are EXPENSIVE, and we ALL have to experiment. I went out to a nice steak dinner w/my hubby, my daughter and her boyfriend a few weeks ago; we stayed in the bar after to listen to some music, it was very festive. I suppose just because I had some "real sour cream" on my baked potato, when I got into the bathroom, there were some younger women in there having a "good time". To be frank, I hadnt even b.m.'d yet, just had gas, and they were commenting how "you may not want to go in there, cough..cough!!) Did they think I was painting the stall, or what?? I wish people could be more considerate, but my husband asked me to dance just one dance when I got back, and I didnt dare!! I couldnt get out of there fast enough. YOU ARE YOUNG-- YOUR CHILDREN NEED YOU!! You may be sensitive to the cold, may not want to go to games outside w/them, swimming, or whatnot, but the sooner you give in to your family's attitude of "its all in your head", the sooner you give up searching for help and not finding it, the sooner your family will see what missing you is like!! YES, there are people out there who are sicker, in the body AND in the HEAD. My husband and daughter have been tough on me, and never wanted to believe its that bad, because 1)they dont HAVE to live with the shame of it, and 2)they just WANT to SEE me having a good quality LIFE, and DONT feel theres anything THEY can do to FIX IT. I for one, am going to try this fiber treatment (fiber capsules before each meal 3xday). I NEED to find a job of SOMEKIND, for MY OWN mental health and fulfillment, and we've got to keep trying...KEEP THE FAITH!! The Lord IS THERE WITH YOU through it all, and He can be a buffer for your children and husband..if you SHOW THEM who He is and can be for us, even in the tough times. He is our ROCK.
I was wondering after reading all these symptoms if my ten year old granddaughter could be suffering form IBS. She has had two episodes where she is in the bathroom with severe cramping and ends up on the floor actually passing out. When she comes out of it she is fine. She's had blood test, CAT scans, and they haven't found anything so for that causes it. What test does she need to actually tell if it is indeed IBS?
For many years I sufferred most of the syptoms you mention and doctors said that I had IBS. A year ago I started using lactase [Lactaid brand or generic from Costco], after every meal that had milk or milk related products. I am happy to say that all my syptoms are gone unless I forget to take the my pill. Lactose intolerance can mimic IBS, I felt a lot better just 3 days after starting using the lactase.
FOR TWO WEEKS I HAVE HAD SEVERE ABDOMINAL CRAMPING TO THE POINT THAT ONE TIME I THOUGHT I HAD TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL. SO THE NEXT DAY I WENT TO A CLINIC WERE THE DR. GAVE ME PROTONIX, AN ULCER MEDICATION AND IMODIUM. I STILL HAVE THE CRAMPING! SOME DAYS ARE BETTER THAN OTHERS BUT NOW I DONT HAVE ANY BOWEL MOVEMENT. NO ONE IN MY FAMILY HAS A MEDICAL CONDITION EXCEPT HEREDITARY CHOLESTROL. CAN ANYONE SUGGEST ANYTHING. DO I HAVE IBS????
ibs is no picnic. had my gallbladder out three years ago and almost immediately had the horrible explosive cramping diarrhea every other day -worse than before the gallbladder came out. then they tell me it's bile salt diarrhea -my liver is trying to fill my gallbladder with bile and too much of it is constantly dumped into my intestines. apparently my liver didn't get the message that my gallbladder is gone. supposedly, this resolves itself, but after three years, i think not.
i take questran daily but have to be careful as it will cause constipation that is almost as bad. despite the questran, i still will have sudden painful episodes. so, in addition to the questran i always carry the trusty immodium (again, constipating, but helpful if i can take it fast enough.) i also have lomotil in addition to the questran which i sometimes take in the mornings when i know i have a flight or long car trip, just for "insurance", although there is no guarantee.
if i had known i had this to look forward to for the rest of my life, i'd have kept the gallbladder -i was miserable, but not this miserable! i keep trying diffrent diets to see if that would help, but it's hard to figure out what works when the trial and error aren't so much fun.
Wow, I had my gallbladder out 2 months ago, and I've been suffering from what I refer to as "bile dumping". My Dr assured me it would stop within the next 6-12 months and that if it happened more than 4 times a day that he would prescribe bile salts for me. I've lost 12 lbs since my surgery but my Dr feels that the weight loss won't hurt me and that I could lose another 10 lbs or so. I will see him again next month. The pain and discomfort under my left side of the ribcage though is sometimes almost unbearable and it makes it hard for me to work..
I have very much pain in my left side under the ribcage. its about 1:16 AM and im 14 years old. Could this be IBS? I have had issues with going to the bathroom a lot but usually only to pee. What is this?!
For pain under the left ribcage look up Costochrondritis.
I learned a bit here today ... I had my gallbladder removed when my son was about 5 months old in 2001, I'm 29 now, and I've recently (since an er visit in nov of 07) had this intense pain under my ribcage every now and then, but if i moved the right way it would briefly dissappear, say 5-10 mins, then reappear. I have seen commercials for IBS but never connected the sudden "diarrhea life" I developed from having my gallbladder taken to this diagnosis. I'm hoping that something simple like either Dannon yogurt or Immodium AD will help rather than another ER visit tonight (as I am currently experiencing this mystery pain under my left ribcage, again it seems to disappear if I either hold the spot or contort myself a bit). The last er visit they said it was an inflammation of the colon but a few weeks later the pain resurfaced and it's been on again and off again since, tonight being the more severe it's been since that night in nov.
Anyways thank you for the comments on this page it's helped me a bit!
You have no idea how great (sorry about that) it is to know other people are suffering from the same thing I am. It has been very distressing emotionalyespecially when you have no control at all and accidents happen. My the forst thing my specilaist did wa to take me off ALL dairy products I mean NADA no milk (except soy) I buy Kosher margarine no cream sauces nothing. He also put me on Questran it's an oral powder lemon flavor that I mix with water or juice, Oddly enough it's used to lower cholesterol (also a huge problem for me) and I weighed 106 lbs and ate pretty healthy. Since I have been on Questran the problem has just about vanished except when I cheat once in a while. My cholesterol and tryglicerides dropped as well and I lost 9 lbs. I am down to a svelt 97 lbs which is good for me sinc I am a little under 5 ft. Has anyone else had the ame results.
I had my gall bladder removed June of 06. I also had the bathroom issue and ruined many clothes. Since the surgery I have been unable to eat any meat. The only thing I can eat is seafood, no broccoli, garlic, fresh fruit. One thing that does help me is the use of aloe vera gel (buy it from the health food store - I like the gel from Vitamin World store best). I put that in water and drink while I am eating my food -this helps to digest my food. I also have explosive times and must be close to the bathroom - I have had every test and no one knows what is wrong with me. It is very difficult because I love chicken and turkey, but cannot digest it-I have been told I do not have enough bile to aid in the digestion. I found if I have a salad with my meal, I must eat the meal first and the salad last or I end up in the bathroom. I do have coffee but usually have a mini bagel with peanut butter for breakfast - which does not cause any bathroom isues.
I will try activia to see if this helps - I am afraid to eat any meat products because it is not worth the pain I get (just like I had before my gall bladder was removed). Anyone have any suggestions on this?
Myrtle Beach victim
ive been suffering from IBS since childhood and now that im in my late 30's the dr said it was my gallbladder acting up biliary dyskenesia. they were going to take it out but i was sick at that time so i cancelled and now my new dr wont take it out. he thinks its not my gallbladder but could be celiac disease or chrons disease. ive had numerous trips to the ER for pain they can never figure it out and always say it could be stress. they make you feel like its all in my head which makes me really mad because im always sick and in the bathroom with diareah and you cant have a good life cause youre always cancelling plans due to being in the bathroom. you cant lead a normal life . i wish dr.s were better at their jobs.im being sent now to see a internal stomach dr to have upper and lower gi scopes.. not too excited about this unless they actually can come up with a diagnosis.. anyhow, its not in your head its real for those of you dealing with the same rude demeaning comments.. keep your chin up.. hope you all feel better soon. im glad i wasnt able to get my gallbladder taken out sounds like i got lucky with that...
i dont knowif this is ibs are what but i know it something
everytime i eat and 30to45mins later i am in the bathroom votiming and in pain and it coming out of both ends can someone help me they think i amcrazy but i no how i feeli was on zelnorm to but i dont know what going on poo
Most of the comments say something about left sided pain. Does anyone have right, lower sided pain? Had the gallbladder out. Had total hysterectomy years ago. 2 months ago got severe lower right side pain and diarhhea. Been scoped and xrayed and scanned-all normal. Have me on Bentyl-helps a little. they are suggesting an exploratory and saying maybe adhesions. Anyone else with right pain?
had my gal bladder to out aug16 of this year i dont know what to expect, cant eat anything makes me sick to my stomach.will IBS do that to you. makes me wont to throw up everytime i thinks of food. does the removel of your galbadder have anything to do with IBS.
I just started having these problems back in June after I eat supper at night than I would get stomach pain and naseau and I would gag but never vomit than I would have to go to the bathroom and sometimes two or three times within a ten minute time period It always comes around my period time about a week before this has been going on for three months now so I had my gall bladder tested last Aug for the same thing and now they ran a scope to test my stomach and everything cam back normal It aslo came about the same time last year June July and Aug. I play a lot of ball and am very active during the summer could this have something to do with it or is it hormaonal or what I am confused
To the person that wrote about having HEREDITARY SPHEROCYTOSIS ..I too have it and have had my gallbladder removed. IBS has struck me to as a result. You wrote that since you have HS having your spleen removed was necessary but that is not the case anymore. I am 29 yrs old and have not had my spleen taken out. They now only take your spleen out if your blood count continually gets low, your bilirubin gets too high, and also if you suffer from aplastic crises more than once. They have found that the risks associated with having your spleen out at much too high in comparison to the mostly mild side effects of spherocytosis. At what age did you have your splenectomy? Also as far at the IBS in concerned I find that when I am stressed out it gets bad but when I'm not stressed out I am fine!! feel free to email at: trishamafia@hotmail.com
In March 08 my gallbladder was removed and since then GI problems have begun. I have always had IBS but since the surgery the symptoms have progressively been worse. If I would eat I would gag and other times I can't get everything out so I do throw up in the process of diarreha. I was in pain and felt tired from my body's up and downs. My doctor and I have worked out a cocktail to combat this minece in my life and I AM excited. He prescribed me an low-dose anti-anxiety pill to help stress triggers(helps me breath and relax ab muscles), eating small lite meals throughout the day to help my stomach with the constant leaking of bile from the liver to the stomach, daily fiber(Kashi bars etc.) or dannon's activa, and finally daily exercise of atleast 30 minutes after the largest meal of the day(evening). So far so good and my triggers haven't became attacks. THESE WILL HELP YOU BUT IT IS A BIG DECISION TO TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK because I KNOW I HAD TO AND IT DOES TAKE A LITTLE SELF WILL because there is NO MIRACLE PILL FOR US. I wish everyone luck with their unique IBS symptoms! and hoped i heped some
I have the left-side pain too, right under the ribcage. I always wonder what it is. It springs up maybe 5-10 times a year, for two or three days. Most of the time I can't notice it, even when it's happening, but if I press on it, it's tender. I also have IBS (UNdiagnosed, or, I guess, self-diagnosed). I am 35 now (male) and the IBS started about 2 years ago. It does seem like there are a variety of symptoms, judging by this board. Personally I alternate between diarrhea and constipation, now I have about one attack a month, lasting several days. I also have a (daignosed) hemorrhoid, which causes frightening rectal bleeding (bright red tp, sometimes bright red toilet water. Just had some foul smelling diarrhea last night, a new experience for me. I can no longer eat onions, lettuce, or milk. This list of foods is growing, which scares me. Beef seems to be good for me, slows things down. My dad has had his gall bladder out, and I think he liked the results. MY MAIN QUESTION: Is anyone ever concerned about colon cancer regarding all of this? (I get to wondering every time I have the left-side pain, but it seems like others here have it. PLEASE ADVISE ME AS TO WHAT THAT PAIN IS, if you have had the left side below rib-cage pain diagnosed by a doctor. I am only sharing the IBS part of my story so that you all know you're not alone.) Cancer seems far less likely than IBS, especially at my age, but I don't have insurance right now and I find doctors extremely unhelpful, so I've been putting off a colonoscopy. Also, please note to all posters to the board: it's far more helpful if you list your age and gender and duration/chronicness of your attacks. Thanks for the help! If anyone wants to refer to me to answer my questions, please call me Don.
Saw the comment about the pain on left side..when I had my gallbladder removed my internal medicine specialist told me that the gallbladder sometimes "mimics" pain on the left even though the organ itself is on the right side. When I would have an attack of PAIN it would last for hours but if I could bend just right in the left direction I would feel some relief. Mine was removed after the birth of my second child in July 1980. It does get better i still have problems if I'm really stressed. But if I breathe deep and rub my stomach it relaxes. But when you gotta go.... needless to say I know where every bathroom is along my traveled roads. Sometimes I can go before we leave the house or restaurant and not get a block away and have to go. After being self employed for 20 years in an office alone I found that if I would eat popcorn it would help and I didn't have to go as often. Needless to say I kept plenty of popcorn on hand.
I too have been suffering from these episodes of massive diahrea several times during the day. No nausea but i have experienced flu-like sypmtoms from the loss of fluids, nutrients, etc. i have been on cholestyramine for about a year now. dosage was twice a day but i didn't always follow that, sometimes once a day or days w/out the meds. as a result of a recent recurrence of severe sypmtoms, i now take this med 3 times a day. i still experience the diahrea but it is less frequent. i also carry the immodium w/ me for travel. anyone else try this medication? results?
hello everyone I have been reading your stories and I 2 have some concerns of what is going on with my stomach. I am not sure if I have IBS because I do not have diareahha but i have these bad pains in my stomach everytime i eat or drink something. it is a real slight pain but very irratating and makes me feel nauses and dizzy everytime it comes on strong. I am very concerend because i have freinds that died of stomach cancer and i do not want this to happen to me. Right now i feel really bad and so afraid to eat because of this pain. I am not going to the bathroom regular and this is a concern because right after a cup of coffe in the morning I run to the bathroom but now no. So I have an appointment with my doctor but just want to know how you guys feel what this is.
I know you folks suffer badly with this discomfort, I also do ! It's very painful and unpredictable, suffering for 6 yrs.+. Alot of doctors can't pinpoint this problem, if it's IBS,Chrones, I've been threw all the tests ! All show up negitive. I'm on medication for acid reflux, I take Imodium A/D and have just started to eat Raisen Bran and it's helped alot of my symptoms go away. Just don't eat cereal to late at night ! It might be a fiber inbalance in your system ? It's just an unpredictable thing that's going on in our systems, we could be getting sick from the things we love to eat and drink, who know's ?
I have IBS and was treated with medications from the Dr. they helped but soon started messing with my vision. So I stoped. I watch what I eat and try to eat out only at places I know want mess me up. I have found the best thing for me is Peppermint tea. It has been a blessing and I so enjoy drinking it. Another thing is I try to eat small amounts of food several times a day. I used to not eat and yes for about half the day or so I was fine but as soon as I at out it came. Breakfast is the hardest thing for me to eat. I feel it is because of the fear of me IBS acting up but once I started eating it seemed to help me in the long run. Keep a food jounal and not the things that don't like you and stay away from them.
I just had my gallbladde removed Oct 3rd of this year, and this pain is on my left side right under my rib cage it was already there before the surgery, my doctor said it was referred pain, your gall bladder is actually on the right but it can mimic pain on your left, well unluckily for me the pain is still there even though the gall bladder is gone. I wish I would have just tried to pass the stones, now my stomach has this incredible growling going on along with the bathroom emergencies. I haven't had an accident yet but I am afraid that one day I will. My fiance is very supportive and I had to cancel my wedding because of this, does anyone have any real hope or help the chronic diarrhea is awful, I'm afraid to eat I've only ben working hal days and I don't eat while I'm there hoping it would get better as the doctor said, so far no luck.And what's going on with this loud and embarrasing growling like acid is eating my stomach alive? Does anyone have this problem too after gallbaldder surgery?
I am a 48 yr old female, with run to the bathroom, NOW, IBS. I've had a few accidents and it does run my life. I have Psot traumatic stress syndrome with severe anxiety and over the months has gotten worse. It used to only happen with an anxiety attack, now it's everyday. Some days are worse, several times in the bathroom, sometimes only a few. I found peanut butter sandwiches with honey and cinnamon help and eating some dry cereal or bread before going to bed keeps me from having to RUN before the accident when I awake. Medications haven't helped at all. My husband and I haven't eaten out in over a year and I dread holidays because I spend more time enjoying the bathroom than the family. They understand, but it is horrible and makes me extremely heart broken anyway.I don't eat any dairy products as I have a severe intolerance to them, so that is not the problem. It appears to be mostly stress related and some foods really don't like me anymore. I'm learning them, but it's a long haul. Good luck to all of us and may God Bless each and everyone.
I have been having (practically) caonstant diarrhea for about 9 months now, some days I am okay, and some days I am in the bathroom 5 or so times a day. Which doesn't make it easy for me being a single Mom and a full time college student! Luckily I have only had 1 real accident.
My doctor thinks it might be my gall bladder (and my gall stone at only 21). I have had several tests (Chrone's, Celiac's, etc.) and so far nothing, I was hoping for Celiac's or something, just so I had an answer and a solution. However I am starting to resign myself to the though that it is diarrehea prominent IBS. I had been taking Immodium, but it wouldn't kick in until the end of the day, and I had problems in the morning straight through the day, with my symptoms just getting increasingly worse as the hours went by. My PCP gave me a medicine called Hyoscyamine, it doesn't stop it like Immodium does, but it makes the problem not so urgent. The only thing is some days it works, and some days it doesn't (just like the Immodium). It makes me so miserable I sometimes don't know what to do. I'm afraid to go places or eat lunch with someone for fear I may have to run out and spend a lot of time in the bathroom. I don't want to tell the whole campus that I have a problem like that, I'm already a fairly shy person.
Sorry for rambling, but I really have nobody to talk to about this. Does anybody know that removeal of my gall bladder might help?
I had colon cancer,dr took out seven ft of colon and most of my rectum. Igo to the bathroom 7-12 times a day and that doesn't count the accidents 5-8 times a week I have taken several drugs to slow the colon down nothing is working and I'm really getting stressed out. I'm only 55 and can't imagine 10-20yrs or more of this. I haven't beeb able to get a job.
Don, my husband has had similar problems with rectal bleeding and diarrhea. He's 31, and this happens to him maybe twice a year. The doctor doesn't seem too concerned, doesn't think it's colon cancer, and doesn't think it's necessary to do an invasive procedure like a colonoscopy at his age. He also has the left side pain, has an internal hemorrhoid, and alternates between constipation and diarrhea.
I'm 29 and have had IBS since high school (like school isn't worse enough) and then missed my first class of the day more times than I could count in college and when I did go to class, I left the classroom 2-3 times in the same hour. I also never went out because I worried people would wonder why I went to the bathroom so much. I found that when I finally opened up to my family, friends, and co-workers after a colonosopy said it had to be IBS because it wasn't anything else, I saw improvement. I'm not saying it's all in our heads, but I do think the added stress of trying to hide an embarrassing problem, just contributed to more diarrhea. Now I'm open about it, the pressure is off, I have my bouts, and I go forward. I was printing pictures at Wal-Mart last month and I couldn't wait for my pictures to finish printing so I told the photo center worker I had IBS, couldn't wait, please gather my pictures. I wasn't embarrassed. Please keep this in mind, somewhere around 25% of adults have some form of IBS and it happens more often in women. Chances are, if you open up, you'll find someone else will say, yep me too, and all of a sudden, it's not so embarrassing because the world is coming clean. Back in the day, tampons and pads weren't advertised on TV and you wouldn't see anything about erectile dysfunction. The more open we each become about it, the more understanding and accepting the world around us will be; oh, and the more public restrooms will be available instead of these shopping centers and stores with one bathroom for 10 businesses. They'll cater to us when they know we're here to cater to. So open up, relax, and try to enjoy the life you were given.
i'm 24 yrs old and had my gall bladder removed when i was 19 after having my first daughter. i had no idea that all this could come from having your gall bladder removed... i must not have listened to well when the doctor was talking, or he just didnt worn me. i have constant diarrehea, but every once in a while it switches on me and i'm constipated for a week or two, then diarrehea again. some days aren't bad, but i dont see those very often. this bulletin board has been very helpful, i always wondered what that pain was. i would tell my fiance that my gall bladder hurts, but i dont know how cause i dont have one anymore. i cant eat dairy really, especailly milk. and coffee does it to me sometimes, but i'm wondering if anyone has this weird one... i cant even get threw half a cigarette {when my stomach is acting up} without having to put it out and run to the bathroom. i havent been diagnosed with IBS but i finally am so sick of it i thought i would check out this web page, and it explains a lot!!! i have gone to a couple different doctors and they could never figure out way i was always so nauseous and everything else. i guess they just didnt try to hard. it's just nice to finally have a good explantion to why this has been happening, cause i'm always worried when i go anywhere, is it gonna happen again? we went to a parade yesturday, and i was most excited that we actually had a spot right next to porta potties. so now that i've seen this, as soon as i get insurance again i'm heading off to the doctors to get it figured out, until then i'm gonna try some of these non precription methods people have put on here. THANK YOU!!
I love knowing that I'm not the only one, but hate it so much for the people out there like me. I'll be 19 in January and I've had IBS my entire life. It used to cause so many problems when I was in school. I'd miss the bus, or not go to school at all b/c I was in such pain in my stomach. I can usually control it mostly now but it can really start to make my stomach hurt, because unlike a lot of people, I can't even USE the bathroom when I know there can be people that can walk in and I'm so afraid of ppl hearing me use the bathroom. That can be worse than actually having IBS, not being able to use the bathroom when I need to!
Sometimes it can make me feel nauseous and gassy. I can eat something and right after my meal I have to use the restroom. It's so embarrassing. It's hard for me to travel because I get nervous about having to use the bathroom and that makes it worse. When I get my period, that always makes everything worse too. It's like the symptoms of IBS want to come stronger when my tummy is having menstrual cramps and things like that. My family has been great about it all my life. My mom would always stop while traveling and go to the bathroom with me so I wouldn't be alone. I have had to miss out on all kinds of events because I get so worried. Any thing can set it off; drinks, nicotine, any kind of food, stress, nerves, getting too excited quickly, just thinking about things will mess up my tummy. It sucks SO BAD! I hope y'all find things that work for you. I've noticed that usually I can make myself hold it in if I'm not comfortable to use the bathroom.. That's not fun at all, but sometimes I have to do it!
Good luck everyone..
I have been suffering with constant diarrhea up to 6x a day since late June 08. Finally fed up and went to see a gastrologist in Oct. she schedualed me for a colonoscopy and an endoscopy. She took multiple biopsies.The colonoscopy came back o.k. the endoscopy came back with my stomach and esophagus red and irratated.That doesn't surprise me because I have acid reflux which I take protonix for.
She did biopsies to check for celiac disease, came back negative. So she's leaning towards IBS. She told me to eat one probiotic yogurt a day. I had the procedures on Nov. 25th. I've been eating the yogurt but doesn't seem to help any. I don't see her again until Jan. 29th. My stomach is really sore, I'm so exhausted all the time, I'm afraid to go anywhere in fear of an episode.
I think I will give the raisin bran cereal a try that one person said has helped them.
This is just really horrible and embarrassing. There has to be a way to treat this. I hate living like this, I feel like I'm held hostage in my own home.
My doctor prescibed Cholestyramine for my constant diarrhea after having my gall bladder removed in August. I take it everyday and have noticed a big difference!
If you are suffering from IBS you might want to look into a book about "Eating by your Blood Type". I swear it works. There are certain foods that we should & shouldn't eat that's in relation to our blood types. Check it out.
anonymous,
38 year old female.
I have had IBS since I was a child also. It does seem to get worse when you are stressed out or when you stress yourself out about thinking you might have an attack and how embarrassing it would be. I too have opened up to my family and close friends about my IBS and it helps when they understand and takes some of the pressure off of me.
Also, no one has mentioned this but I find that taking two ibuprofren (Advil)help with the pain in my left side and severe cramping. This allows me to function somewhat normally. I will usually take the ibuprofren before I actaully have symptoms, like a half an hour before I leave the house and it helps. I have also been taking the Yoplait version of Activia and I think it is helping with the loose stools. I have only been taking it for about 10 days to two weeks now and I can only eat half a cup of yogurt a day or it makes the gas even worse.
Unfortunately, it seems we all have to find our own custom fit remedy and I hope I may have helped someone. Don't stop living because of IBS, hang in there and keep trying new things.
And...if you are passing blood, please go to the doctor. Most people with IBS do not pass blood.
I had IBS for years and took Librax 1/2 hour before eating which helped somewhat. Librax is an anti-anxiety pill which keeps the colon from going into spasms. I found my problem was largely caused by fats in my diet and adjusted that as well. Then I found I had an enlarged gallbladder and numerous oversized gallstones some of which were escaping the gallbladder by that time. After surgeries for each of those problems, I thought all would be well, until I found that within 20 minutes of my first bite everything was going straight through me. I was told this would ease up quickly, but after two weeks straight of this, I went looking for help. My doctor told me I had "dumping syndrome" which is caused by the bile now going straight to the intestines and acting as a strong laxative (since there was no longer a gallbladder to store it). She prescribed Cholestyram, the generic of Questran, which not only totally eliminated my problem but can also be prescribed as a cholestoral aid. It is a powder which I mix with juice (I like white grape peach because my stomach has never handled citrus juices well) and take once a day. The only bad side is that it must be taken one hour after and four hours before any other medication. I can live with that. The diarhhea, which had been pure liquid, I could not live with. I couldn't leave the house. Like others have commented, I could not make it to the bathroom even in my own home in time to prevent soiling my clothes. After a year on Cholestyram, I tried to ease off of it but found I still need it. So three years later I still take it and am living a normal life. Hope this helps some of you.
I have had IBS for several years now and have noticed that over the years it has gotten worse. It used to be I would get the cramps for about 5 days then have 2-3 weeks of nothing. Now it is daily. I don't get loose stools but frequent small stools. I am afraid to eat anything, because within 20 minutes, I am cramping and need to be close to the bathroom. It has sure changed my life. I've lost 40 pounds. I am afraid to go anywhere for fear of having a real bad episode. Unfortunately, I don't have health Insurance, so I try to deal with it on my own.
35 female had gallbladder removed 10 years ago after my 2 daughter was born severe diarehha and yellow bile instool and it hits always after eating or while in town so upsetting for myself and my husband thinks its all in my head and i dont wanna go out anymore or very far from home i know where every restroom is in our county i ve tried rx drugs, doesnt work i ve tried over the counter i have 2 daughters who know thats moms life if its a bad day very few good ones thank god my mom has this aslo and i worry for my girls but mainly just the embarrasing situation i feel so bad for myself guessing what kinda day i will have but my husband gets pretty upset and not understanding because we cant go to movies dinner and the extra stress of trying to please everyone and survive this but breakfast isnt possible not even a glass of water before 10am i ve tried small meals no meals and during period holy cow its twice as bad!!!!!!!!!! i am readying about aloe to help i will try anything thank god for being there with me because its hard good luck and god bless you all.
I went on this website hoping to find some answers and thinking that I was the only person that suffers from this horrible condition. I am a 44 year old woman and I suffer daily from these same problems. I can’t even enjoy anything anymore. I have a horrible time even enjoying the smallest things like shopping in a mall, going out to eat and even walking in the park. I hear the first mention of going anywhere and the anxiety increases and I have started finding reasons I can’t go. I have stopped going anywhere without be the driver, my concern is what if I need to hurry to the closest restroom and I am not driving so I can’t hurry. I too have had several accidents and felt so embarrassed that I wanted to just disappear. I have always been told that with IBS I need to watch what I take for diarrhea so that I don’t lock my colon up. Lock up, now that would be such a wonderful switch! Where do I go from here!!! HELP!!!!!
Well I know there are sure a lot of comments on here.... But heres my little story.....
My son who just turned 8 years old has been having explosive bathroom attacks as we call them almost daily. There are times he doesnt even make it off the bus and into the house in time. This has been going on for over 3 years.
At birth he was an otheriwse normal baby with the exception that he'd puke and it would be projectile until we changed his formula to soy. Over the years he began having constipation problems with cramping and pain and fevers. We took him into the hospital several times only to be told he was just constipated and to change his diet and add daily dose of prescription laxative. In the recent few months his pain got so bad that he'd throw up while in the bathroom. He'd stay in there for 30 minutes at a time.
He was always WEAK and PALE!! I took him in repeatively and docs kept taking xrays and saying the same ole thing change his diet and lets up the laxitives. I finally pleaded with a doctor to look at other problems because this was so bad he couldnt even go to school. They performed a CT Scan on him and did a small bowel study which showed he had Meckel's diverticulum. Upon finding this, they docs acted quickly and rushed him to the nearest Childrens Hospital to be scheduled for surgery.
The doctors almost missed the finding of Meckel's. We had been through about 30 different doctors by this time and all of them had missed it. Most doctors are not even looking for it because it is said to be so rare. Fortunately one of the docs doing the Bowel study had just been doing reading on rare disorders and remebered this one. Meckel's is said to only affect 2% of the worlds population but his doctors at Childrens Hospital said they believe it to affect a larger number of people.
Meckels is cured with surgery. Since the surgery he was not allowed to eat solid foods for about a week to give the intestines time to heal from the surgery. But since he is all healed up he is a normal child again. He is no longer plagued by frequent bathroom breaks, extremely painful cramps, vomitting daily and embarrassing accidents.
THANKS YOU Childrens Hospital
WOW, your paragraph was like reading one I wrote myself, it fit me to a tee. I too have learned what foods trigger my IBS to act up and avoid them. For me it's nuts, and many seeds. People don't realize that a broccoli is covered in little seeds, as well as strawberries. One must really learn what triggers their IBS and just accept it as you will always have it.
I too have my over the counter helper in my purse at all times.
Cathy
Wow...it does make a difference knowing you're not teh only one dealing with this kind of embarrassing, painful affliction. I'm a 39-yo man who's had diarhea predominant IBS since around 14ish. I have constant, chronic diarhea everyday unless I take 3 immodium first thing in teh morning and one before dinner. I don't even wait for symptoms...just pop them everyday. Even so, I still have boughts that can strong-arm their way thru the immodium. Lately I've been trying to play around with elimination diets. I managed to go on a complete food-sensitivity diet for about 2 weeks and it really did help...but was very diffciult to maintain. My stomach hurts even if I drink water though, so I'm thinking mine might be caused by some chemical or maybe food preservatives. I don't know yet...it's a long road ahead of me before I peg (if ever) what is causing my issue!
I've had the same problem for about two years now. My attacks usually happen on the weekends, but occassionally occur during the week. I believe it is because I am more disciplined in my eating habits during the week because I am on a schedule, so a healthy diet high in fruits and fiber is essential. I am also comfortable with going to the bathroom at work since I've been there long enough and most of my co-workers know about my condition. However, this has affected my social life negatively, as well. I'm to the point where I can't go out to eat, and when I go somewhere, especially in a social setting, I feel an urgency to go to the bathroom. If I know in advance that I have plans I refuse to eat after a certain time, which also is not healthy. This causes me to binge (mostly on unhealthy foods) when I get back home which causes another attack. I too, take Immodium when I go out because the social anxiety is unbearable, but then I feel uncomfortable and bloated for the next two days until it wears off. I did some research (on webmd) and found out that probiotics can assist in IBS sufferers since good bacteria belongs in the intestines and the body knows how to handle it. I would love to be able to go out to eat again and order something other than salad and be able to go out afterwards for a few drinks without going to the bathroom first. Hopefully this will help subside my attacks and anxiety. Exercising is also helpful in IBS sufferers since it relieves stress. I am going to try a mix of eating healthier, exercising, and probiotics for my IBS and report back in a few weeks. I cannot live the rest of my life relying on Immodium and anti-depressants. I need to improve my quality of life and hopefully will be able to assist or inspire others that suffer from this horrid disorder.
I am a 48 year old male. I had my Gall bladder removed about 14 years ago. Until then I had no bathroom issues. Went once every morning, like clockwork. I suffered through 3 or 4 Gall bladder attacks before finding out that "it needed to come out". The surgeons I went to said I was a textbook case, and deciding to have it removed was a 'No Brainer'. When they went to figure out when they could schedule it, it turns out it had to be the next morning, or not for almost 2 months - so I was pressured into making the decision in literally 5 minutes, so they wouldn't loose the operating room. It was the worst decision of my life ... If I could just have those 5 minutes to do over .... For about 7 years after that, I had daily diarhea, and spent anywhere from 3-6 hours in the bathroom each day. Since I also have a overwhelming phobia about going in public bathrooms, well I spent many days at work holding it until I could speed home for a 'photo-finish'. All my sick-days, vacation days, and personal days were really 'bathroom days'. Finally, a gastrologist prescribed Questran, which I used for about a year, and brought some relief, although I had to balance my dosage careful to try to straddle the line between diarhea & constipation, as close as possible. For six months after that, on my doctor's suggestion, I tried a handful of almonds each day, instead of the Questran, which also worked pretty well. That lasted about 6 months, when after traveling out of the country, I got sick with a fever. Back home again, I got some really weird pain from my neck to my chest, which prevented me from moving (just sat still) throughout that Thanksgiving week. The doctor gave me an antibiotic, which solved that pain, but somehow caused a 180 degree reversal of my bathroom situation - constipation all the time. Whereas before, everything I ate, except steak, turned to diarhea (forget ice-cream, salad, fruit, etc), now almost everything turned to concrete. Before it was like my liver bile had been an open fire-hydrant, since then, it has been barely dripping. I haven't eaten a steak in about 5 years (no potatos, chocolate, etc). Two years after the constipation started, I got an anal fissure, near the beginning of August. I was almost completely unable to move, and spent the majority of each day lying on the couch (I had resigned from my job to try get a handle on my health issues about 6 months earlier). As the anal fissure refused to heal, after about 6 weeks, I ended up having an analectomy (two weeks of stitches in the worst place you can imagine). On the upside, I haven't gotten another anal fissure. On the downside, I'm still wrestling with the constipation, but now, if I get an urge to go, I usually have less than 20 seconds to make it into the bathroom - my ability to hold back is virtually non-existant (I don't dare even pass gass without being seated - I never know what's coming). I have had 'accidents' - very humiliating. I tried using 'depends', but that is more humiliation than I can bear, and is too uncomfortable. The January after the analectomy, I attempted suicide, by swallowing a whole bottle of sleeping pills - but did not even fall asleep - just got woozy. That was a little over three years ago. In one way, it was a good thing, because it forced me to get help for other emotional issues which were hiding in my subconscious, but I still am unemployed. I can't go on interviews, and couldn't go to a job each day anyway. I am currently trying to find a way to work somehow from home (while I still have one), but I haven't found something I can do yet.
I have had so many tests, as others have, and am so sick of hearing: "There's nothing wrong", even though I know there is. The only diagnosis I got was "IBS" (also diverticulitis), which apparently isn't a valid excuse for any type of disability, even though I sure feel disabled. Although I wouldn't wish these issues on the devil, its nice to know I'm not just crazy, that others have some of the same issues, and find it just as hard to enjoy life this way. That said, I pray that God sends each of us a way to find some joy amidst the anguish. I know that I can't seem to find a way to want to continue battling, but I am still hanging on and trying. I am currently taking Activia (about 2 weeks in), and that seems is making my life easier. I heard that they were no longer removing Gall bladders to handle gall stones, but if anyone who still has theirs gets this as a solution - GET A SECOND OPINON! And a third or fourth, if necessary. I want mine put back!
I was diagnosed with IBS when I was only 14 and I am almst 30 and still dealing with it. Some weeks I feel great, other weeks I am constipated and then there comes the week tha I am in pain and cant stop going to the bathroom. I am truly frustrated becuase i cant live my life like I would like to. Everytime I go out to eat I wonder if I am going to get sick. If I go camping or take trips I end up feeling sick right before I go and I have to then take immpdium just so I can go on my trip. But then once I do that I end up with constipation from the Immodium. It is a never ending cyle that has not only been troubling for me but everyone around me. I cant tell you how many times I have bailed on my boyfriend and friends and missed out on some fun times. No one trly understands what it is like living with this condition and I just wish that someone had something that would help my live a normal life. If anyone has any tips please help me.
IBS is not caused by the removal of a Gall Bladder. IBS is a blanket diagnosis that basically means they can't pin point what is actually wrong with your digestive track. They only way to "diagnosis" it is to rule out other things that we actually know how to test for. That being said removing the Gall Bladder can cause all the Diarhea for many people. I read years ago that taking Calcium Caltrate can help with this type of Diarhea. I highly recomend those of you that had your gall bladder removed try that. I suffer from IBS (or at least that's what we are calling it for now) and I tried it after reading about it's success for people with Diarhea from Gall Bladder Removal. It does actually help my IBS/D symptoms as well, but you have to be pretty diligent taking it and work at adjusting the amount to work with your own body. I take half a pill with each meal but you can take more (see the bottle). Please try this if you have Diarhea after Gall Bladder Removal. I hope it helps!!
I suffered for years with severe abdominal pain, bloating, and my doctor could not find any reason for my symptoms. I had test after test, and they all came back negative. I went to the emergency room so many times, it was unreal. I had barium swallows and they finally said they thought I had IBS....they gave me anti-spasmodic drugs, which ended up being totally useless. I even changed my diet to an IBS diet, and still, no relief in site. Finally, out of desperation, I found a prescription that I had taken earlier for a bacterial infection. It was called Levaquin. Out of total frustration, I got it refilled and took 2 tablets twice a day for 10 days. I have had no problems since then. My pain is totally gone and I have been symptom free. My doctor said, Gee, I guess you had a bacterial infection in your intestine that did not show up in any of your lab work, and your tests came back normal. Sometimes you just need to try things on your own. Even doctors and all the expensive tests out there cannot find reasons for our suffering. I hope this helps people out, because I remember how badly I suffered. Good luck.
I suffered with, what I know now to be IBS for years. I was just dealing with it until recently my sister suggested drinking Aloe Vera everyday. I get it at my local health food store. I have a 1/4 cup in my orange juice in the morning and feel great all day. With having more normal than not bowl movements daily I am so happy! No more accidents or embarrassment in public restrooms. Even better than that is I don't have to rely on medication, just what nature provides. Fantastic!!
OMG!...I thought I was going crazy with this!!...I'm so relieved to know I'm not alone and not imagining it!...I have everything each one of you spoke of, but I had my gall bladder out in July 08 and the pain under the rib cage I experienced for a few months afterward was on the right side!!!
There is one problem I'm having that I didn't see mentioned, it's kind of embrassing but here goes, no pun intended...because of going so often and having the bile come out I've been experiencing a very annoying and painful rectal itch...All the over the counter stuff doesn't work...I've tried Prep H, Tucks, Desitin, Vaseline, even Butt Paste, it's all a waste because I have to go so often I have no time to heal, or ease the pain and itch...Anyone else have this problem...
Ok I read everyones comments on IBS with diarrehea but I am wondering if I have it with the constpation. I have never had my gall bladder taken out and never had constpation or diarrehea. but about 5 months ago I started getting severe cramping, blotting (looks like i am pregnant),and bad gas. if I eat out I hurt severly in my stomach for about 2 days.I went to the doctor and have had about 3 test ran, Cat, and Bavarim enima, and blood work but the found nothing. My chest will hurt my stomach ( upper and lower) have gas, stomach rolls, and my back cramps really bad, I am just so miserable. Can anyone help my? Cause my doctor cant. thanks
I have had diarrhea prominent IBS for over 3 years, and through trial and error have been able to weed out some things that make it worse.
Chocolate, caffeine, (includes some medication, like Excedrin Migraine, which is made up of mostly caffeine), anything with small seeds, like tomatoes, alcohol, and grease. This means I do not eat out as much, dont drink coffee or alcohol, and have to de-seed things like tomatoes.
I can still have an attack when I am stressed: there is no real way to avoid all stressors, but have learned to deal with stress better, (or am working on it anyway!)
I also found that Pepto Bismol really helps. Sometimes the cramping would be so severe that I would get extremely nauseous as well. (I found out that nausea is a symptom of severe pain.)
Sometimes Pepto and a hot shower would be the right thing to calm the cramps down, especially when they were so bad I was doubled over. Heat in general, like a hot shower or heating pad, seems to help the muscles unclench, and deep breathing or other relaxation techniques seem to help my mind calm down.
I still have some attacks, but not nearly as many, and getting rid of some of the trigger foods is totally worth it!
I have read these blogs. Im not sure if this is what i suffer from. I have had these symptoms since I was 5 years old and now I am 28. Everytime I eat it runs right through me or so it seems. I have been to the doctor and to the emergency room over and over again to be told it is growing pains.After 13 years of pain I begin to wonder do I ever stop growing? I know the doctors are missing something but I cant make them find it. Maybe I have IBS cause for 13 years I have gotten sick at my stomach nearly everytime I eat and have to go to the bathroom. I cant gain weight cause I cant keep my food in it seems.I have weighed the same since I 1996.
I had my gallbladder removed back in 2001 an for the last 2 yrs have had problems with bowel movements like I have on here. My problem is I am a Owner Operator an I drive all around the country an there isn't a lot of places that I can pull into that isn't a truck stop or a rest area like a lot you can do. Is there any over the counter meds I can take that will help me. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
LIBRAX LIBRAX LIBRAX! I am right there with all of you. Had my gallbladder removed in 2005 because they "ruled everything else out" and I am now diagnosed with IBS/D and diferticulosis. After lots of tests, pokes, prods, and cameras going up, down, and all around. If I take 1 librax each night before I go to bed EVERYNIGHT, I am symptom FREE. Only the rare episode when I go out and eat TEX MEX or something crazy greasey. Note that you can NOT take Librax with pregnancy so during my last pregnancy I ate the Activia and it helped greatly to get me through. Activia works just not as well as the Librax. Take it at night because it has a mild anti anxiety that will make you sleepy. Anxiety is one of my triggers so that is a plus plus for me. Most pharmacies carry only the generic with clindium. That is the one that works, not the "new" stuff. Clindium with Chloradipoxide. Good Luck to All!
I was diagnosed with IBS (with explosive diarrhea) about 5 years ago...I had been suffering for many more years than that. I used to rely on imodium, but now I currently take a daily probiotic and use Librax as needed...and due to the probiotic the as needed is very few and far between! I also always look for live yogurt cultures when buying yogurt for a little extra help!
I AM TRIED MY LIFE HAS TURNED UPSET DOWN. EVER SINCE THEY REMOVE MY GALLBLADDER I AM IN THE RESTROOM ALL THE TIME I CRY BECAUSE IT IS PAINFUL. DR'S SEEM THAT NOT TO BELIEVE IT BECUASE THEY IF I GO TO THE RESTRI=OOM SO MANY TIMES I WOULD BE SKINNY. I CAN NOT GO NO WHERE. I AM SCARED OF LOSING MY JOB BECUASE I AM ALWAYS IN THE RESTROOM. PLEASE HELP. MY EMAIL IS CLAUDECALDERON80@YAHOO.COM
claude: do not despair. get a good or different doctor or the surgeon who removed your gallbladder to prescribe something. librax or questran might work.
I read this blog and I feel a little better knowing there are other out there like me. But some of my symptoms are different and some people might see my blog and say "thats what's happening to me". About 30 days after having my 1st child (13 years ago) I started having the pain associated w/gallbladder. It took 1 1/2 years for anyone to determine it was gallstones (it was removed). Im not sure when it happened, but I started having severe stomach pain on a daily bases. I was told Acid Reflux. Had an endoscopy and had a Hiatal Hernia as well. Was given Aciphex and it has helped some. I did ask the Nurse @ the surgeons office if gallbladder removal cause stomach pains and she said no. But I have a hard time believing that, expecially with what I read here. For the longest time Ive had constipation and sometimes along w/that my colon spasms/cramps (that is what i think alot of people here are describing/pain on left side)..it hurts so bad, like a charley horse. It stops once I have a bowl movement. So now my dr. says IBS along w/the acid reflux. I have had pains in my left rib cage side and was told its part of the IBS. My Dr. said pain above your belly button is stomach issues, but below the belly button is colon issues. The charly horse pains left for a few years and now they have come back. I also just had a 2nd child who's 21 mos. I only had hernias during pregnancy. No issues w/the acid reflux but maybe a little constipation. I was told to take fiber for the constipation. Now, Im having issues where I feel sick all over like I have the Flu w/out the achy bones feeling and then feel like nausia is coming on. Once I go to the bathroom and have a bowel movement, it immediately goes away. The bowel is soft during this time. Then about a month ago I had diarhea for the first time. I was miserable. I went to the bathroom like every hour and it was not a good feeling. This lasted about 4 or 5 days. We think it was something I ate as I started feeling ill soon after, then came the diarhea. I still think the gallbladder removal has something to do w/all this, because I never had this before then. Sometimes I feel bad in the middle of grocery shopping and I am always telling my dd to get whatever and lets get out. I sometimes leave w/out getting what I came to get and I hate it. I feel bad almost every day. Now I am having pain in the front rib cage area on the right side. Sharp stabbing pain. Couldnt sleep and the doctor today said he thinks I pulled a muscle. I dont believe it! Its always one thing after another! I just want it to go away.
I have been suffering with chronic diarhhea off and on for about five years. I had a colonoscopy and diverticulitis was found. Two rounds of antibiotics and it got better for a while. The bloating, cramps and nausea affect my quality of life. Last year I was having pain in my upper right side along with diarhhea and had gallstones, which turned into gallbladder surgery. The diarhhea seems to be worse than ever. Thought I might have a wheat allergy and left off wheat products for a week to no avail. Tried a bland diet which helped a little, but still frequent loose stools. I spend about half of the morning in the bathroom. There has got to be an answer. I am going to the doc today and hopefully get some meds to help stop the madness!
For the person who complained about rectal irritation, try zinc oxide which was recommended by my colorectal MD years ago. He said that the itching is caused by leftover feces in the rectal area.
Thanks to this blog, I've just realized that my self-diagnosed IBS/D is a due to my gall bladder removal. I just discovered that I am also lactose intolerant. I was living in the bathroom every morning after having one cup of coffee and a small bowl of cereal. I now use Lactaid instead of regular milk and thngs are so much better. I still have to go to the bathrom a few times in the morning BUT with normal stools. AND my first trip is usually before I eat or drink anything. Lactaid is still not a 100% solution for me. I have also tried Activia with no improvement. Certain foods such as creamed spinach or lots of butter triggers it. I also take 1-tsp of Metamucil (psyllium fiber) mornings and evenings to keep things moving along. When I miss a dose, I am right back on that toilet seat.
As far as accidents, they've mostly been at home (thank God) but I do user pantiliners and keep a pair of underwear in my desk drawer just in case.
I have also learned to use Immodium-AD in small doses (1/2 of chewable tablet) when things get our of hand.
I do think this is inherited -- bot my parents probably had IBS/D but, in their day, were diagnosed with spastic colons.
Do keep a food diary -- it will help you find your food triggers. Good luck to all.
Think positively and see yourself symptom free.
Tried to read through all the comments, but there were so many, hope I'm not repeating anything. I was born with projectile vomiting, checked my pyloric sphincter as a baby, it's fine. I had ulcerative colitis at 6 years old, stomach aches my whole childhood. By my 20's was diagnosed with severe IBS. I grew up on donnatal, spent my adult life on librax (I'm 47 now). Besides having lupus and fibro, we also have cystic fibrosis in the family. An endocrinologist agreed with me this last month that being a CF carrier can likely cause bowel problems. Since CF carriers are pretty common, but so few of us have ever been tested, I'm betting this might be related to IBS and asthma, especially in young children.
My biggest problem right now is that my insurance has suddenly quit paying on my librax, and I'm already high maintenance. The first rep I asked about it said something about FDA, but no one after her confirmed it and kept telling me FDA reports no adverse effect with this med. ??? So how come NOTHING in this med family will process through my insurance now? I found an abstract on google about investigation into FDA trying to root chlordiazepoxide (ingredient in librax), along with valium and some other drug, out of public reach for some time, and how frustrated doctors are about this since these drugs have an established history of being fairly safe AND cheap. You have to pay for the article, so I don't have it, but I could find nothing else at all on it, but you have to wonder why an insurance company that has paid for this medication for years for my obvious medical history suddenly pulled out of paying for it without warning, and NOBODY will tell me why. I'm finding where this has happened with other anti-cholergenic drugs for IBS, leaving patients very frustrated. My whole life revolves around the toilet and severe gastric pain without these meds, so I'm hoping a few of Obama's staff get IBS real bad and have a good rethink about FDA over regulation, eh? The dance that patients and the whole medical field have to do around the government is making me pretty upset, really tired of other people making decisions that make my life harder. IBS is bad enough, don't need my insurance people all spooked about it now. I bet over the next 4 years we're going to see a lot more pain and misery coming because we're not 'cost effective'.
Hi everyone. I too have suffered most of my life with diahrea. However, about 10 years ago a health-nut friend of mine took Fibercon (really the Kroger brand)once every evening just to keep his colon clear. I reluctantly started as well. Since I started this routine (I started out taking to doses a day at lunch and dinner) I've felt a dramatic change. I would encourage everyone to get on a fiber suppliment regimine. It works!
Please Help! I have been diagnosed with diverticulitis as well as IBS. I had part of my intestines removed almost 12 years ago. The doctors have given me meds for the IBS but now I have a new problem. I wake up every morning vomiting mucus and acid which of course comes with the heart burn that wakes me up hourly all night. PLEASE HELP! I am becoming very depressed and losing hope.
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I finally found a place where people are like me. I have had what they call "dumping" for five years. Before that they called it IBS but I didn't have the urgency I now do. My life, if you can call it that, revolves around Imodium. Have tried every drug and had every test, several at well known teaching hospitals and they can't find anything wrong. I know taking Questran for cholesterol helped but left me bloated, nauseated and had no appetite. It was my last hope. I have low cholesterol but it binds with liver bile salts and stops the diahhrea. Too bad it didn't make me feel better. My problem is weight loss, I weight 105 and I'm 5,5. Everyone says, oh don't complain but I don't want to look emaciated, just healthy. Other than this problem, I am healthy. Why doesn't someone come up with a good drug for this????? Help.
I have had IBS for a number of years and it got worse when I had my gallbladder removed last year. Whenever I would eat or drink something, my stomach would ache and the intestinal cramping would start. My doc said that what was happening was that the bile from the liver was now going straight into my intestines instead of being held in my gallbladder. That is what was causing the uncomfortable experiences I was having. He prescribed the medicine called WELCHOL. It is typically used in high cholesterol patients. It works as a binding agent and creates more solid bowl movements. It was been a blessing for me. Ask your doc about it.
I feel like the guru on IBS-D! I was first diagnosed when I was 21 and now I am 46. I have not used many medications as I have found I did better by changing certain foods. These are my triggers: eggs, lettuce or greenery, anything acidic such as tomatoes or red sauces - I only eat white sauces on pastas and such, pizza is a big no-no, nothing really spicy or hot such as jalapenos, or strong spices, really greasy foods or chili, onions (I eat green off the green ones instead), garlic, veggies that are gas producing. I know a lot of other people in my family that have the same triggers. No one before us had this, they are all the people after us. I find I can eat breads when my tummy is on the prowl and it will make bulk in the stool. Other bland foods do this as well such as crackers, rice, pasta. I have onoy a small problem with milk and sometimes a milkshake (small) will actually help me if the acid is high. Mainly, you want to get the bulk part going. he newest things I have found that help are activia yogurt, Danactive and eating something with a lot of salt (even pediolyte). I found I craved Whataburger's plain burger and I realize it was becuse of the salt. Somehow it changes the water level in the body with the salt and it seems to calm down. The medicines I have taken that help are OTC Phazyme (for the gas and to coat the stomach), hycosamine (bowel muscle relaxer), bentyl (bowel muscle relaxer)and and OTV acid controller. Sometimes I can get on bouts where I can't control it for weeks and yet I am a large woman, not sure how I stay this big because I rarely hold my food on a regular basis. I often wonder if I am absorbing any of the nutrients in food at all. The activia and danactive really have seemed to help when this happens ... OH, and when I get like this, I drink BOOST. It helps keep the energy up, put some vitamins in your body and it starts to calm my stomach and allows me to slowly start holding food again. If I drink it when it is normal, however, it will mess me up. I also have VERY foul smelling defecating and it doesn't matter if I have a little or no food in my system. I go to the bathroom sometimes 20 times in a day. I have had lots of Colonoscopies and rarely they found a polyp, but they said it looks really healthy BECAUSE I constantly an cleaning myself out - and that is apparently good for us. Hope some of this helps some of you newbies so you don't have experiment as much as I did.
i have often wondered if i have ibs my symptoms are similar i am fine for a week and while im at the house but as soon as i leave for work it hits and there are no bathrooms i too have had accidents i am a 21 year old male and i have had the symptoms for 3 years now about a year ago i found a simple diet that worked for me i only ate 3 times a day i ate a sausage egg and cheese biscut for breakfast then lunch i ate a ham sandwich on wheat bread some kind of fruit one cup of yoplait yogurt and the regular kind of sun chips in the blue bag and drank one coke for super i ate whatever i wanted after a week of that i could just about tell you what time i had to go to the bathroom everyday hope this helps someone
i think the removal of the gall bladder may also be related to ibs cause i too suffer from it as well as my dad who had his gallbladder removed. my trigger is usually greasy food, big breakfast, big lunch, big dinner and long trips for some reason triggers as well as stress. anyone with the same symptoms. by the way i take peptobismol tablets before i do something that i think will trigger it and it helps.
I'M 30 YEARS OLD AND I HAVE HAD IBS FOR A LONG TIME IT KEEPS ME FROM GOING PLACES I CANT FOOD WITH OUT GOING TO THE BATH ROOM I HAVE TAKEN EVERY PILL IN THE BOOK THE DOCTORS DON'T EVEN KNOW WHATS WRONG WITH ME I HAVE A EGD COLONOCAPY ULTRASOUND OF THE GALBLADDER ALL FINE THEY SAY I HAVE A FATTY LIVER BUT IM NOT THAT FAT IM CHUBBY BUT NOT FAT IS THERE ANYTHING YOU CAN RECAMEND JESS
I am 26! I have been dealing with IBS for as long as I can remember! My sister, my cousin, and my uncle all have IBS as well as a few of my friends. Knowing that I have family and friends that I can talk to about my issue has always been the biggest help. I have that wonderful 50/50 IBS... you know... I may feel constipated for a week, and then the next week those "attacks" hit me hard. Imodium AD has been my savior. However... I will warn those with the 50/50... that the Imodium AD may save you from the attacks, but it will make the constipation even worse. So over the last year I only take Imodium AD if its ABSOLUTELY necessary. Otherwise... I just deal with the situation. I have found that you will actually find it a releif if you just tell you family, friends, and maybe even your co-workers. If they truely care for you, then they will be understanding of your situation. Also... if I am going on a trip... I will only eat Club Crakers and drink Sprite. Those are my comfort foods that I am 99% positive will not trigger an attack. That is the biggest key... find those comfort foods that work for you. I have been living with IBS for as long as I remember. The trick is to not let it get to you. I have the funniest "accident" stories. I always call my sister and cousin when one happens, and we get a good laugh. What else are you going to do but laugh about the situation because there is nothing you can do to change it. I have used my underwear as toilet paper, I have gone outside at a restaurant, gone in a plastic bag in my car, and much more. You just have to stay positive and not let it stop you. DON'T let it run your life. A few other things that help me... your nerves will make your attack worse, so if you are in your car crank up your AC and breathe deeply to calm those nerves. Anyways... I could talk about this... my suggestions... and my stories ALL DAY... so I will stop now!
-- ILLINOIS GIRL
I have suffered with IBS for most of my life--I'm a seventy-five-year-old female. Mine involves diarrhea (almost never constipation). No doctors have been able to help me but I finally found my solution by accident--taking two five hundred milligrams of calcium each day. Since calcium can be constipating (don't need that either), I take five hundred milligrams of magnesium to defend against constipation. Also, I am careful about fat intake since my doctor said that I have a dysfunctional gall bladder. Life is so much better now. I hope this helps some people, especially that calcium and magnesium are harmless for most people.
does de-caffeinated coffee cause IBS or is it food allergy? my stomach is upset within an hour of drinking any kind of coffee... I guess the best thing would be to stay away from it, right...
I have ibs.I have some good days and some bad.My symptoms are very painful at nite.I mostly have constipation.Its very painful.my gastroenterologist says I NEED LOTS OF FIBER BUT SOMETIMES it can be too much. caffene and fatty foods make it hurt worse.I was on zelnorm for 5yrs and I had no symptoms at all but they took that off the market.the doctor put me on amitiza.that didnt work.then they put me on generlac for constipation.that made me sick.so im going back to the colon doctor again.if anyone knows of any treatments or remedys they use to help with there symptom please let me know!
Hello ALL...........
Its the same old story from everyone!
I have had Dumping Syndrome all of my life. I've even found a Doctor,
A Gasteroentologist who had the same problem. We worked on it for four years. And then HE DIED!
I use to carry LOMOTIL with me all of the time. My GI Doctor did not
want me taking it any more. I had been taking LOMOTIL for over 20 years. So I stopped, in its place I used a glass of red wine. Its alcohol, but it did have some advantages. It was a whole lot less costly. And it was available almost everywhere. It still had the same limitations that LOMOTIL
had. Only worked after an attack.
I was not able to do a pre-emptive strike to be able to be problem free for a selected event. It only worked after a problem happened. But, it had the advantage of working in about 15 min. instead of about 2 ro 3 hours.
After my GI Doctor died. They would not tell me why he died, he was about my same age. After he died I started to take this problem very seriously. This was about 13 years ago now. I changed to a very strict vegiterian diet.
It took about one (1) Year before I say a change, but, I did see a change, so I keyed on this and stayed with the veg. diet to this day. It took a few more years, but I have seen some major improvements in my condition. I still have minor accidents, but no major blowouts like I had most of my life. I do have lots of alergies. Verified by an Alergests
scratch tests. I tend to think that maybe part of my condition might be related to alergies. I am especially alergic to CATS. I have sever reactions to CATS, I have most of my Live. I hope some of these comments help you! Good Luck! Doug
I read yor story today & it kinda made me feel good to...... I am going through the same thing. I am now 40yrs old. just had a new grandbaby. 2months old. I have been going through this for the last 7yrs. I was just diag. last yr. with what i had. they have been working with me on med. To see what works & what don't but I have some of my own remedies to from going through it so long & the Drs. kept telling me their was nothing wrong with me. I have had more surgery's. they took all my insides out my appendix out. I still don't know what they are doing cause nothing has changed. I feel I am getting worse.But I keep on doing what they tell me to do. Please someone tell how to feel better I am in so much pain everyday & I have diarrehea5days a wk. then constp. for 2. then it is the same cycle over. but it is so much pain & bloating...And all these different meds. can't be good for u.......Please help
Oh my God, I am trying to be more positive, but IBS seems like a curse. I have yet to visit a Doctor who has given me any relief. I have changed my diet (no red meat, dairy products) with some success, but am still searching for the cure all. It may not exsist, but it seems that a combination of changes to be most successful. Good luck to everyone, it helps me to read these blogs since I do not feel so out in left field. Thanks.
Does anyone have a constant pain/ache under the right rib cage/breast? There is some relief after a bowel movement. Occasional pain in the middle of my back & lower right side.
I am 58 years old and always had a hard time going and the cramps were really bad. Now I go all the time. My Dr. said the other day its best TO GO than NOT TO GO!! Easy for him to say. I drink lots of Imodium AD. Never leave home with out it!! I had my galblader out about 15 years ago. I didnt know until reading every ones blog that was part of my trouble. I have Fibormyalgia and Type 2Diabetis and have been for a while also. My IBS always waits till I have to go to shop! We live in a rule area so I go to a larger town 31 miles away to do the main food shopping etc. shop. I know there is 2 bath rooms. One at the front and one at the back. I have always worried about having one of those embarssing moments. Its not conforntable but I now ware a adult Dipper on those days and have another on in my purse.Still I try to make it to the bathroom just in case I get there and they are CLOSED for cleaning...
I can so relate to just about all these postings. But what I realize the most is that I too had my gall bladder removed 14 years ago. I started suffering with the running to the bathroom thing ever since then. It is very embarrasing and I always starve myself while running errands so I don't have to worry about running to the bathroom. It's a terrible feeling. I hate when the family wants to eat out and all I can think about is I know I'm gonna have to go to the bathroom and it makes me want to never go out to eat. I always suggest pick up and take home. But I too would like to enjoy a night out without the worry. I also have this fear about having to go to a public restroom and someone coming in. It's just horrible. The accidents are so embarrasing. I was only twenty-seven when I had my gall bladder surgery and have been suffering with this ever since. And of course there are those certain people who do laugh at you because they think it's funny and they can't even imagine what a horrible thing this is to have to live with. I hope there is some cure to this so that we may all live a more normal life.
I have had IBS since I was in my early 20s. I am now 50. It has always been there. Sometimes a break, but mostly it is constant. Right now it is constipation, but I have had it both ways. I actually had to put a pad on my bed for a long time because when I had super soft or runny stools I would often "leak" in my sleep. Talk about embarrassing!!!
Cleansing for a study is also a huge nightmare for me, however, a very necessary one (bring out the pad again).
I too have been told there is not a link between IBS and cancer, however, I have had several polyps removed with cancerous changes. The first one was found before I was 45. My doctor was checking for something else and found it. So, if you have had long-term IBS, don't wait until the recommended age of 50 for your first colonoscopy. The one I had at about 4 years after the other one, again, before I was 50, had muliple polyps this time with cancerous changes.
I have had to have surgery where a significant segment of my ileal intestine was removed and used for a medical procedure. I had even worse diarhea after that (2003). The miracle for me was a change in one of my antidepressant medications. I'm NOT reommending medications here! I'm just saying that when my doctor, who was treating my depression, learned of this problem, he changed my med from nortriptyline, which I had been on for years and years, to a similar dose of amitriptyline. That helped stop that horrible diarhea. In fact, it made a very dramatic change. I was even able to go to Belize for 10 days just 4 months after that change -- comfortably!
I now suffer more frequently from constipation, however, I would rather deal with that than the other.
My best advise? Be aware and take control!!!
You need to keep track of what makes your situation better or worse. Discuss this information with your doctor. If he does not do something, against your better judgment, insist on changes or studies, or whatever it may be. When you think it needs to be done and your doctor doesn't, listen to his reasons first to determine if they fit your situation. If you really believe actions not taking place, should be, tell your doctor!
Best wishes to you all!!!
check ou htpp://www.helpforibs.com
I follow the diet on that site vegan style sand drink lots of strong mint, fennel, chamomile tea and eat ginger.I also take a liquid probiotic that is dairy free.
Good luck! I know IBS is awful!!
As horrific as IBS is, I am glad to know that I am not the only one dealing with this nightmare!
Ive suffered from IBS since I was young, but hit me full force when I was in High School.
The worst part was all the trips to the doctors and having them tell me I needed to stop stressing out or it was all in my head. So I have been on and off Anti depressants and anti anxiety meds since.
I am now 31. I want to get pregnant so my dr took me off my Anxiety meds. Since then my IBS has taken over. I have had to call in sick to work more times than I care to count. I am so embarresesed to use the bathroom at work. I get scared of having an accident on the freeway while Im trying to get to work. Everything I eat makes me sick. Ive lost about 35 pounds since May... I dont have much of a social life anymore because the very idea of being somewhere and getting sick scares me. I find myself making excuses instead of going out with friends. My husband has been very supportive through all this. Hes been my strength.
I take immodium all the time, and that helps for a little while, but I get so constipated. My stomach bloats and I get cramps. I often find that I get sick first thing in the morning. Sometimes Ill be in there with the most painful cramps and diarreah, and I get dizzy.
Today was another day, I started getting ready for work, and it hit me like a train, I was in the bathroom for a half an hour! I finally managed to get to Urgent care and they had me give them some stool samples. I am at my wits end. I know my IBS is set off by anxiety, but my dr doesnt want me on anything while trying to get pregant. I need some serious help. I may try that Activia yogurt this weekend, when i know I wont be going anywhere.
And im sorry, but Dr.s can be so insensitive when it comes to IBS... They have no idea what we are all going through, and often make us feel worse.
Im miserable. I have 3 days until my results come back. *sigh*
I have suffered from inconsistent bouts of IBS as well. I left work 2.5 years ago to look after my 3 small kids and I don't really recall having an attack in during my time off work. I decided to go back to work and started last week, and all of my symptoms have come back with a vengence. I now know that stress is my trigger.
I had diarrhea IBS for about 7 years. I'm now 51. I have hepatitis C but I'm not sure that has anything to do with it. I've had countless colonoscopies and CT scans. They never found anything wrong. I spent 2 years at home because I could not leave the house for any reason except to the Doctor. I tried everything in the book, then had my gall bladder removed and the surgeon put me on Colestid. It's a cholesterol medicine that soaks up excess water & fat in the colon. It comes in powder form and I now take 1 spoonful every day mixed with a glass of OJ. Since then, symptoms have pretty much gone away except for when I forget to take the meds. He literally saved my life! I now can enjoy a baseball game or boating out on the lake! Ask your Dr. about it.
are there any english blogs .or medicense to help ibs..or is the site american?
My husband was diagnosed with IBS but he also gets alot of nausau with his from time to time. Does anyone else get this and is there anything you can do about it?
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