stuck at work

Having a very bad day with IBS, only been at this job for 4 weeks. Only one other person works in the office and their office is right by the bathrooms. we have thin walls. i just wanna crawl in a hole and go home. SO EMBARRASSING!

Will this ever end?

by Michelle
(Minnesota)

I have never been diagnosed with IBS but it runs in my family and I've suffered from the symptoms going on 25 years. I have had bouts over the years and one very embarrassing one while traveling in Ireland a couple of years ago. Today marks one month I have been going through a bad bout of IBS. To make matters worse I was laid off in March and have no health insurance. However, I am able to communicate via email with my doctor. I'm on a strong pro-biotic and on the BRAT diet. I seem to only be able to keep food down for 24 hours then I have a bad bout with the stomach cramping and sweating. He suggested I go off the BRAT diet and start to introduce some lean protein, steamed veggies and rice as a meal. I tried that and lets say it didn't sit well with me. I have stopped eating dairy now going on 2 weeks to see if that is one of the causes. I decided to try a liquid diet in hopes I can get some nutrients into my system. A friend suggested Hemp Protein Powder and I went out and got some today and mixed it up with some Hemp milk and fruit. Here's hoping it stays down. I'm just so frustrated over this whole thing. I'm worn out and exhausted.

the toilet is my best friend!

by Jade

My ibs is taking over my life i am constantly on the toilet, if i go to the toilet 7 times a day it makes it a 'good day'. I am off work at the moment to being bestfriends with my toilet at the moment is more of an inconvienace rather that anything else, soon i will return to work, and my anxeity could literally eat me alive, obviously being nurvous doesnt help my IBS. I dont know how im going to over come this, even down to getting the bus in the morning- what happends if i need to go? i cannot control my bowels, what happens if i have an acciedent? i feel like i cant do any thing to stop this i feel controlled by my IBS and all i want to do is escape!!!!!

No energy, Scared to eat. Always sick

by Jenna
(Orange County)

I have completely lost energy, Im scared to eat because I will go days without a bowel movement, and it seems like I always have stomach problems. My boyfriend is probably so sick of hearing "My stomach hurts"..."my head hurts"...."I dont feel good".....I have lost my spark in life. If I have a bowel movement two days in a row...which happens, very few and far between.....I feel great. I get up in the morning and cant wait to start the day. Its so strange how something as simple as going to bathroom on a regular basis can make someone completely different. The toxins in my body have seriously taken over and its something I have been dealing with for years now. I just need an answer. Yesterday, I went to the doctors and I was put on a WHEAT FREE DIET / GLUTEN FREE. Hope this works....

Times Forgotten

by Faye
(Johannesburg)

Yesterday I had the worst IBS attack I've ever had. In the 8 years since I've been diagnosed this was the worst day of my life. I couldn't even tend to my 13 month old baby girl. Instead my boyfriend (soon to be ex) had to see to her. And it broke my heart. I tried everything. Eventually the only thing that seemed to help was a warm bath. So I had 2 in a matter of 2 hours. And the worst part about it is that I know EXACTLY why it happened. I haven't had an attack in months. Because I've gone out of my way to avoid the triggers. But at the moment I'm so stressed out. My boyfriend is going behind my back and talking on gay chat sites and I'm going to be unemployed at the end of the month. I know I need to end it but its not going to be easy. But I am going to do it. Until then I'll just suffer with these pains and discomfort. Today is better but I can feel that I'm not ok and am just waiting for the crippling pains to return.

Can I just call this 'AHHH?' or Perhaps 'Groan?'

by Siân@Ibs-Life
(Wiltshire, UK)

I have noticed over the years, that if I am suffering some other illness, such a flu, a cold, ear infection etc, I do not get IBS (apart from the upset stomach antibiotics cause.)

Lately, I have gone through a month of what I believed was *almost* a UTI, but it never quite escalated into the terrible pain of a UTI, and a sample sent to the hospital showed no bacteria. So, apparently this is Irritable Bladder (Also called Hyperactive Bladder)

O_O For crying out loud! I could almost laugh. Irritable Bladder and Irritable Bowel? Except -- not quite together. I was too absorbed with the Irritable Bladder to notice my bowels, and now, probably the first day my bladder has felt normal, I am curled up here with a hot bottle and terrible stomach pains, gas, and nausea from goodness knows what cause.
I am not sure which one is worse :(

IBS since 7th grade, now going into college and the IBS is the worst it's ever been

by Anonymous
(US)

I first got IBS in 7th grade. I had many friends and was out all the time with them. I began staying home because I couldn't handle the thought of being out and having the IBS symptoms in front of my friends. I thought my life was ending and I became very depressed with the thought of never being able to go out with my friends and missing out on all their fun times. School was a whole other story. I went in late most of the days because of my anxiety of what might happen if I am in school and have to deal with the IBS. I went to the nurse all the time to get out of the stressful classroom. My mom had to write a note to the nurse to not give me a hard time if I came in too much since I had so many stomach problems. I went to a specialist at least 2 times a month and did tests to figure out what they could do to cure me. I went on amatryptelin and it seemed to work for some time. My IBS is always on and off. I can go 4 months with no problems at all, and then it will come back for up to a year. This past year I thought maybe it was the anxiety that was triggering the IBS. I went on an anti-depressant for anxiety and all it did was make me sleepy so I went off of that. I went back to the doctor and he put me on lomotil which slows down your system, preventing diarrhea. It didn't work so he put me on a higher dosage, which I am still on now. It doesn't seem to be working at all. I've been on so many different prescribed medicines from my doctors but none of them seem to work at all.
I am unable to go out with my friends and even family because I can never enjoy myself. I am constantly uncomfortable with either abdominal pain or having to go to the bathroom where ever I am. I am very social and my friends are always planning trips to go on and adventurous things to do, and while I should be excited about it all, instead I dread whatever we do because I know I would rather be at home in bed with the pain than trapped somewhere I've never been. My boyfriend invited me to go to the Island "Saint Martin" with his family, which is probably the coolest experience I have been offered. I declined the invitation because I knew the IBS would be at its worst since I will be so far away from home, not with my family, and trapped at an island that I know nothing about.
I've cut out so many foods from my diet because I'll end up in the bathroom whenever I eat a food that bothers my stomach. I no longer eat when my friends and I go out to dinner and everyone thinks I'm on some crazy diet, when the fact is that every time I eat a meal I end up with stomach pains. I used to never have problems at home because I feel comfortable at home, but lately the IBS is even causing problems when I'm just relaxed in my house. I've tried everything to fix this but it will not go away. I've lost all faith in the doctors because it has been 5 years and they still can't find anything to help my IBS.
I am going into my freshman year of college in the Fall, and I am scared out of my mind. I asked for a single dorm room because I am afraid that if I have a roommate, I will not be able to lie in my room alone while the pain is causing me to double over in my bed. The dorm rooms share one bathroom, so it will be extremely embarrassing having to go to the bathroom so many times and everyone will know. I purposely picked a school that is only about an hour and a half away from home so that if my IBS gets too bad, I can just come home for the weekend and feel comfortable again. My college is a big party school so I am also scared of going out at night with friends and not being able to last the whole night because of my anxiety with the IBS. My biggest fear is if the IBS prevents me from getting my education and having a normal college experience.

If anyone has any suggestions such as types of food that calms their system, tips on how to deal with this, prescriptions that help diarrhea, or anything else that might help me with my situation

Bowel panic attacks

by Jordan Davies

Hi, I've had IBS for almost a year now and it feels like there is always feels like there is no hope. I often feel upset because I'm 18 years of age and can't even go out on a Friday Saturday night in fear and embarrassment of my IBS. Having IBS in general is horrible itself but for young people like myself who often haven't had a lot of life experience, we don't really get taken seriously by doctors. I also have anxiety and for people have panic attacks can understand just how terrifying they are. I end up having panic attacks whilst in a session of IBS and it amplifies fears. From evidence I have found the subconscious mind has no form of reasoning and will accept whatever the conscious mind tells it. For people like myself IBS can be extremely demotivating but for there to be a chance managing IBS better a positive mind is crucial regardless of how hard a situation feels. Strengthening your stomach muscles can also help improve IBS from what other sufferers have told me and succeeded with. All of us are in this situation together and there WILL come a time where we can look back and explain to others out stories we just have to endure the hard road for a bit. Don't get hooked on that there is no cure. For every man-made problem there Is a man-made solution.

Jordan.

jobs that are good for people with ibs

by stephanie
(florida)

this isnt more of a how im feeling its more of a question...i want to know if any of you have jobs where you are actually comfortable with ur ibs at...like i worked as a cashier at walmart and it was actually ok as long as we werent busy or if i wasnt working the tobacco lane...but as soon as either of those happened i would feel trapped or like i couldnt get to a bathroom and it would flair so bad then...so i was wondering if there are any pretty good jobs out there that dont make you feel trapped or panicky...thanks in advance :)

My IBS-Curing Diet - it works, but it's sooo hard to keep up!

by Rick
(UK)

I tried so hard to start a new eating regime/experiment after Christmas and for the month of January I only ate "nature’s foods" - namely: organic vegetables and fruit.
No packets, no tins, no additives, nothing other than food the way God intended us to eat it.

For about 4 weeks my stomach was perfect! - It acted as if it didn't have IBS! My energy levels were up and I was sleeping like a baby!

Unfortunately, keeping up an eating regime like that took a lot of discipline, and slowly I've been slipping back into my old habbits again.

The problem is the amount of time and effort it takes to prepare the food.

I decided rather than eat set meals because it was time to eat, I chose to eat only when I was hungry, and let hunger compel me to find food. It works really well, but what I'm finding is that I'm only getting hungry in the evenings when I'm not that enthusiastic to start peeling potatoes, chopping veg and cooking from scratch. Hence the slip back into my old ways.

One of the things I have been able to maintain is not drinking tea - at least not the normal stuff you put milk in. I've changed to fruit teas - things like red bush, and mint. The result is that I have not touched milk for a couple of months and it's definitely helped improve my IBS symptoms.

So where am I right now? A seriously dodgy stomach today thanks to eating some Greek yoghurt last night has inspired me to re-kindle my nature’s foods diet starting today.

Wish me luck, and if anyone knows a way to get around the "chore" of preparing a fresh meal late in the day, I'd love to hear your comments!

Rick

Normal Life??

by stephanie

I just want to know if there is anyone out there that lives with ibs and has a normal life...i mean it really makes mine suck i feel miserable everyday im 19 and cant get a job cuz of it so i live at home, my dad refuses to buy me any "special" food he calls it so everyday i feel horrible and i just want to know if there is anyone else like this...is there anything i can do seeing as how pretty much all the food we have in the house sucks for my system besides pasta and thats only if i put nothing on it...i feel like just not eating but then i would get sick from that...idk maybe this is just a cry for help but i dont know what to do and im sick of feeling depressed and miserable all because of a stupid illness without a cure :(

It's depressing me immensly!

by Annoymous Girl
(UK)

I'm 15, so “bowel issues” have completely ruined my life. I can’t physically bring myself to go to school. My whole life is a mess, I have ended up with hardly any friends at school and I feel hated.


My parents say they understand but honestly how can they? When I stay home and refuse to go to school they seem so bloody mad at me that’s not understanding, it just makes me feel worse.


I’m 15, what on earth have I done in my short life to deserve this. I feel depressed I cry every day and night I’ve resorted to self harm a couple of times yes it was stupid it helped for a while but now it doesn’t so luckily I’ve stopped without anyone noticing anything.


I thought puking up my food would help... LIKE HELL DID IT, constant sore throat is all that gave me, one person did find out about that and I blamed feeling fat why do I feel I cant just tell people about this! I don’t eat if I’m going out places or forced into school, I feel useless and disgusting as horrible as it sounds I honestly think I’d rather just not go on with life..


I have tried suicide for other reasons before and all it did was build more regrets and I couldn’t go through with it... I wish I could because life is becoming an absolute hell for me...


I feel my parents are disappointed in me because I refuse school, I feel college isn’t gunna be an option, therefore won’t get to university and won’t manage to get my dream job of a councillor specialised in children...


I see myself flipping burgers in McDonalds for my life. I feel so angry at myself for this it’s horrible this issue is not my fault, but the way people treat me for it makes me think wait maybe it is my fault I mean I must have done something to deserve this.


I have been thinking about going to the doctors about depression because I think I’m getting depressed over this, but I don’t want to broach this subject with my parents but if I go seeing doctors behind their backs and they find out they will be even more disappointed in me.. to be honest if they found this and read this they would probes tut at me and think “oh just feeling sorry for herself” or “if that’s what she wants to believe!” but thing is I’ve been tearing myself up about it for a very long time if it was just feeling sorry for myself surely that feeling would have gone by now!?


I do love my parents don’t get me wrong and they do support me but I feel they don’t support me enough, they believe if I just try things it will work but they don’t realise I cant do try things if I’m not confident about because it stresses me out resulting in the problem being particularly bad! I thought of all people they would know that.


At the moment I’m attempting to learn from books at home, its going surprisingly well but then my mum keeps going on about how I wont have gcse’s I don’t know if she means I wont learn enough or I’m not gunna get put in for exams... I want to take my exams but now I don’t even know if I’m being put in for them.


Why is this such a mess I really don’t believe I deserve this... I complain my hair isn’t growing that’s because its falling out... my excuse when I complain is split ends but that’s from where I sit and shred my hair with my nails when I’m overly stressed I can’t help it it’s become a habit with stress. I argue so much more with people... I’ve lost so much faith and confidence in myself I feel worthless, and that’s a terrible feeling.


I don’t know what’s going to happen in the remains of year 11 but if I’m not allowed to take my exams and at least try college I’m scared my life really will be just flipping burgers and no point in my life at all.


I’ve always had big dreams from a young age; every time I really set my heart to it it’s ruined. For instance my dancing I loved it, but then I got knee issues had to give it up and I lost confidence in that... I wanted to be a hairdresser, got to go to college as part of school but lost interest very quick... got to do work experience in a salon I loved it sort of made me re think or the hairdressing thing, but too late I’ve replaced it with a bigger goal in life... Which for a while I thought was fantastic so it wasn’t necessarily a bad thing but now no... My bigger dream (the counselling job) seems so far out of my reach. I feel life for me is a big fail...


I do have good days, where I’m smiling, happy, feel in such a good place but it’s hardly ever... I smile everyday and say I’m happy, all I can think is it’s a bloody good job I’m such a good actress, because the smile is fake and the happiness is forced. I don’t want sympathy; I want more support less stress and a bit more help.

IBS was Covering Another Illness

by Melinda
(Michigan)

I've had IBS all of my life and in the last year just thought it was getting worse. It was becoming unmanagable and I just didn't feel well. I started to accept that not feeling well was just normal. About six months ago I got a cold chill and developed a temperature and the next morning it was gone. This happened three or four more times over months until one evening my temp went up to 104 and I ended up in the emergency. It turned out I actually had c-diff plus another bacterial infection. Now that I've gotten rid of the c-diff and started taking Florastor I feel better than I have in a year. I thought all along it was just my ibs but I must have been suffering with these two infections for quite some time.

Isolated, Ugly, Depressed

by anonymous
(u.s.)

I am angry, depressed, lonely, mad right now. i've had IBS to some degree for at least 20 years. But what really makes me angry is that my IBS got to be its worst as i made my diet HEALTHIER. The more whole foods, grains, fruits, veggies I ate, the more debilitating and excruciating it became. What a cosmic joke that is. Do what's right and be punished. Now i have to eat refined white sugary starch for relief. Not only do i have to see the horrendous bloat, but i actually gained weight withe my IBS discover because I have to avoid the truly healthy foods.

I am sooo scared, new to IBS

by sheila
(kamloops BC Canada)

Hello All, I am greatful that this site is here!!! I have just been diagnosed, then undiagnosed, but my symptoms are telling of IBS-D. To be brutally honest, I don't think that I can live with this curse, I am not in a good frame of mind or spirit, never mind the failing body. I took antibiotics 8 months ago now, got C-Diff, got that cleared, but have not been normal since, loose stools but w/ no pain or cramping. 6 days ago I took iodine on an empty stomach, w/in an 1.5 hours I was in emerg, diagnosed w/ ibs, some bloating and wierd movement for about a week before this. I wonder if it had to do with these suppliments as I only started getting IBS symptoms once on these. Yet, I have stopped taking everything and the IBS has only worsened, last night, 4am, was my first time with liquide stools, almost didn't make it, I am sooo scared. What has happened to me, can someone help me? I am 44, I just got irritable bladder the same time as IBS. I also have Fibromyalgia, sjogrens, raynouds, very low iron, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, progesterone low, (on prpgesterone now) but everything I take hurts my guts, even B complexe and Vit D. This is life altering. I watched that video of the man who takes that Whey Protien, has anyone took it as well. Does IBS go away if it's onset is from drugs/suppliments? How do you cope in your daily activities? I will look for a blog or forum to see if I can chat. I am so scared and feeling all alone, my husband is also very upset at this, I am full of guilt and shame and am very embarassed. Thank you for listening to how I am feeling right now, cause it isn't ver good. Sheila

That was a downer!

by missy
(Victoria, BC, Canada)

Please do not mask your IBS symptoms with Pepto Bismol!! I got kidney stones (from the calcium build up)from consuming so much to do a quick fix whenever I was feeling ill :(

my IBS story, i hope you can relate and share with me your story too (:

by Keira Stevens
(madison wi)

Dear IBS suffers,

i have had IBS now for about a year and a half,and have hated it! it has turned my once social happy life into a downward spiral. before IBS i was a social butterfly and loved school and going out with my friends but ever since IBS decided to come into my life it has been everything but,I dont go to public school anymore,i hate sitting at home being on the computer doing online classes and letting my ibs take control over me and my social life and above all my health, i am in fear of so many things mostly because of my symptoms and them happening in public, but recently it has been just plain anxiety of the most stupidest things that would most likely never happen. the doctors have tried so many things from anti-acids to anti-depressants but nothing has worked and i feel so alone about my condition, i feel as though doctors dont even take me seriously.and i still havnt found any way to releave my symptoms except miralax (a laxative used to soften stool and make it easier to pass) and a heating pad, but what i have learned is to think about people who are worse off then you, there are so many people out there who are suffering of cancer and other very life threatening diseases, so the next time you feel helpless try and realize that all hope isnt gone and that IBS is not as bad as it could be if you really think about it. i hope everybody with IBS can find there own way of dealing with there pain, anxiety, cramping,"attacks",and all the things that affect you when it comes to IBS.

peace and happy thoughts,
keira s.

Feeling So Sick

I believe I am suffering from a flare up that has lasted a couple of days. I woke up this morning in such pain that I almost did not make it to work. Also, throughout the night, I suffered severe cramping pain that kept me from getting good rest. I'm completely exhausted and confused. I really don't know what has caused this. It seems to be getting worse as I get older.

I hate Ibs!

by Veronica
(Timmele, Sweden)

I am 36 years old, and was diagnosed with Ibs a couple of months ago, after a cuople of years going back and forth to the doctor. And I hate it!!
I have Ibs-c with nausea, and it has just taken over my whole life. I´m not in charge anymore, Ibs is, and it decides when and what I can eat, when I can go out with my friends etc...
And the fact that there is no cure makes me so sad. What if this is as good as it gets???

How do you cope with your Ibs? I hate feeling nauseous all the time, some days I can´t even get out of bed, and I´m terrified that this will go on forever..

I´m in school right now, studying to be a nurse, but sometines I worry what the future holds for me. What if my Ibs doesn´t get any better, only worse? How can I work when I feel like I´m going to vomit any second??

I live in Sweden, and the doctors here say that Ibs is not an illness, and it´s hard to get them to take me seriously. My husband and my friends are all very understanding right now, but for how long?

I´m feeling sad right now, and I´m glad I found this webpage!

why are there so many horrid ppl in the world???

by Jeanette
(Darlington UK)

i dont know whats worse at the moment the anger the pain or the stress!!
5 days ago now some f?%$ing stupid man who couldn't be bothered to go out and get a proper job and work for a living decided to scam me on the phone - i stupidly trust ppl and feel for it - when i realized what had happened i had the worse panic attack i have ever had and that has led to 5 days of agony. So i cant go to to work and i can only concentrate on the pain! all because of a con artist ............ why are there so many horrid ppl in the world???

Gas, nausea, light headed...UGH!!!

by Liz

I was recently diagnosed with IBS-C. Today I'm having one of those I wish it all would end kinda days.

Constant gas, nausea, bloating, pain and feeling light headed becasue of it all.

I'm in the bathroom every time I feel the slightest hint I might be able to go cause any bit I can get out of my body has to help in some way.

I don't have medical insurance so I cannot afford to go to the doctor. Over the counter remedies is all I have right now to rely on and at the moment nothing seems to be helping.

Up until now tums and an acid reducer has been my best friends. I can put up with the pain as it seems to come and go. I hate the constipation, hoping and praying each time I go to the bathroom that I might be able to pass something, anything out of my system to give me a break.

But what I really hate the most at the moment is the gas, nausea and bloating. I feel like I can barely breath sometimes there is so much pressure. I feel light headed and just over all yucky. I'm afraid to eat because it just makes me feel worse but I'm afraid not to eat because that makes me worse also.

It's a no winning situation. I am working and not in an unstressful job which just adds to everything. I can't wait to get home at night to be able to relax for the first time all day. Friday can never come soon enough for me and the weekend is always way to short. Not that I really go and do anything but just to be able to relax and know the bathroom is right there.

I know so many people have said it before and will say it again but I just want to feel normal again, whatever the heck normal is.

food suggestion? Am I ever going to be cured and able to live normally?

by diana
(Netherlands)

Some are struggling with finding the "right food" for them and others has already found it. I just got it 2 weeks ago, and Í feel well now, as long as i eat healthy - but i am still trying all kind of food to find the right food for me, which is kinda depressing.
Anyways, I was wondering if i keep eating right and do daily exercise for 5-6 months, can i be cured ? or do i have to continue this way for the rest of my life? :(
I dont have much energy these days, since i cant eat all food. any suggestion for food i can eat?

Chris

Feeling a bit "sensitive" over last few weeks.

Was diagnosed last October 2009 and this is worst"attack" I have had since diagnosis.

Thought I had this condition under control but obviously not!!

anxious

I have had gastro problems for one month now...bloating, cramps, bowel issue upon waking, little to no appetite. This pretty much began when I was stressing big time daily over a preliminary diagnosis for another issue that began in oct...dry mouth...sjogrens. I would read the internet and panic. And when my bowel issue and fatigue began, I would do the same and have major panic. Have a gastro appt next week, but my current dr thinks it could very well be ibs enhanced due to anxiety. Ran liver blood work to alleviate one internet driven fear. Came back excellent. I feel very alone.

I would end my life if i wasnt so scared of death !

by tara
(england , lewes)

I have had panic attacks for 15 years and developed ibs 5 years ago. i am 24 years old and never really lived. It has got to its worst where i spend 80% of my time in bed trying to sleep off the pain. i can no-longer eat unless im practicly starving. my boyfriend cant take anymore and he's all i have got if i lose him i will have lost everything , i have no friends. crying is my only release so i do it alot. i feel so trapped as leaving the house is so difficult. i need help but i dont know where to turn. im scared i will be like this forever thats there no cure no way of getting better. i miss the world outside of the walls of my house. i have so many panic attacks a day that im constently worn out and so tired. if anyone can help me , please let me know. im so lost.

I feel frustrated with ibs

by Louise Hunter
(Glasgow area)

I have been recently been told that i have ibs after 3 years of going back and forth to the doctor and even the hospital.The doctor thought that it was my kidneys so i got treated for them and then at the end i still was in pain! The pain never went away so i just learned to work with it that was up until 5 weeks ago when i was out for a friends birthday i knew that i needed the toilet and i really needed to go, i was complaining of a sore left side and had bad spasams that never seemed to go away. On the day that i was going to work i collasped and ended up getting rushed into hospital, at this point they were still trying to figure out what it was, i got all tests done while i was at hospital, they discharged me and sent me home with co-codamol. I still had the pains the next day and went to the doc and this was when i was told. I didn't know much about ibs the doctor wasn't much help either she just said to me to eat a plain diet! All the while i had to get my fiancee to phone in sick for me, which my absence rate is already terrible! i was stressed about that as well so my doctor gave me a line off for a week, after that week i still wasn't right so i took another week off, my work were not very supportive with me either they wanted me to see their occupational therapist they kept on bugging me all the time that my doctor told me to try and take things easy well that was easier said than done! The week i was due back at work i ended up getting rushed into hospital again! this time they gave me more tablets and prescription for lactulose as i had been consiptated for weeks! So i had a 2 weeks off this time.I went back to work on tuesday there and i was not great as my mebeverine that i had been taking for the spasams had ran out so i was cold turkey for my first day back, this put me in a lot of pain and up and down to the toliet probably about 5-6 times on the one day!Got the tablets after i finished work and took them the next day for work and i was ok still up and down to the toilet but i could cope with it, then my friend who is training to be a nurse wanted to take me out after work for a 4 mile walk round the park near were i stay. I said to her this wasn't such a good idea as i am still not right but the way she made me feel was that it was all in my head and that i am fine, she said that she has ibs as well and that she can go weeks without going and when she does she is in soooo much pain. This really annoys me when people say this, i think that half of the people that i have spoke to that have stopped me half sentence saying that they have it as well probably have diognosed themselves! this bugs me they have no idea how i feel and that each day is a struggle with food and being scared because i don't know how my body is going to take it! untill they can say this has happened to them then thats when i will listen! My friend took me for a that walk and it has made me sicker than i ever thought possible! i went into work the next day and ended up getting sent home due to really bad spasams again and ended up in the toilet at work for half and hour and shaking! Even my section leader said that i have came back to soon which i knew myself but because of them i had to come back cause i knew that i wouldn't get piece otherwise. i asked my section leader before i got sent home if i could get a hoilday put in for me for the next day as i am still not right and i don't want to be marked as absent, i never got a phone call which she said that she would get my boss to phone me but he never did so i phoned and i got another manager and she said that she will get it sorted don't know if they did, was due back yesterday and could not move out of bed had to get my fiancee to lift me out of bed and take me to the toliet the spasams were really bad badder than i have ever had them! i could not walk with out being in so much pain, i know this is not normal and the docs are useless and i really do feel all alone, don't know if i should take more time off work arghghhhh!!!! if i do take more time off then i will be in soooo much trouble! people please help!!!

IBS ALL MY LIFE

by TERRY
(SPAIN)

I AM A 65 YEAR OLD MALE LIVING WITH IBS AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER,DIAGNOSED BY MY LOCAL MD WHEN I WAS 20,THEN CONFIRMED IN MY 40S BY A BUPA HOSPITAL.

AT THIS MOMENT IN TIME I AM GOING THROUGH A BAD BOUT OF IBS AFTER TAPERING OF BENZOS WHICH WERE PRESCRIBED FOR ME 12 YEARS AGO TO HELP WITH THE IBS,WHICH DID HELP BUT I DO NOT RECOMEND THEM AS THEY ARE VERY ADDICTIVE AND RUIN YOUR LIFE BUT THATS ANOTHER STORY.

I HAVE TRIED MOST PILLS AND POTIONS OVER THE YEARS BUT NOTHING REALLY WORKS, AT THE MOMENT I AM ON ALOE VERA CAPSULS,DO THEY WORK? PERHAPS THEY HAVE SOME HEALING.

IF YOU ARE READING THIS AND SUFFERING WITH IBS I KNOW HOW YOU ARE FEELING AND THE BEST ADVICE I CAN GIVE TO YOU IS DONT LET IT RULE YOUR LIFE,I KNOW IT WILL BE HARD BUT TRY TO THINK POSITIVE AND KEEP BUSY.

ONLY YESTERDAY I HAD VERY BAD LOWER TORSO PAIN BUT WENT OUT FOR A MEAL AND A DRINK WITH MY WIFE WHO HAS HAD TO PUT UP WITH ME AND MY IBS ALL THESE YEARS, BLESS HER BUT CAME HOME WITH NO PAIN AND FEELING POSITIVE,AND YES THE NEXT MORNING BACK TO THE PAIN THAT IS ALWAYS THERE FIRST THING IN THE MORNING.

BEST WISHES AND KEEP WELL TERRY

accidents

Hi, I'm 38 and was diagnosed with IBS last summer. Today I had my 6th accident where I actually have to go in my knickers whilst on my way to work. I'm pretty down about it as it is really embarrassing and disgusting.

My Theory of a cure or treatment for ibs !

by Jose Cardenas
(Atwater Ca.)

Hello, Well my Name is Jose i am 16 & been suffering with ibs for 6 years and i research ALOT about my illness and try to figure out ways to overcome it or grow out of it . i was on a website that showed a episode of "secrets of Your Mind" & as i saw it they were talking about Electro Mind Surgery & i there was a ladie there that was struggling with weight .Well She was the first ladie to have that surgery .The Doctors said that The Brain controls everything & when he said that i was thinking what if it can control ibs ? or pain or anything. As i Watched the video i was researching more about electro mind surgery and if it can cure or atleast make things better because i know how much it SUCKS to have this ibs , your always runing to go to the restroom and tons of more stuff ! . Well i havent asked my g.i doctor yet but i want to ask you guys what you think ? research it and i dont know mabey if im the first person to mabey know if it works i want people to know to. leave a comment and tell me what you think and if it might work ?

Heres the link of the video i was talking about


http://www.hulu.com/watch/176441/secrets-of-your-mind-tue-sep-7-2010#s-p1-so-i0

We Should never give up.
because i aint until i am cured

Thank you & Leave a comment

--Josee

bad week

by pdee
(South Africa, JHB)

this week has not been my week, i have suffered from IBS out breaks everyday since the week starter if there is a good time to give up i guess this is it...tonight i will reach out for that drawer with a blade i know so well and as it slides through my skin i will curse IBS for it has brought so much pain,hurt,shame and unending embarasment in my life

I hate ibs

by Taylor
(pittsburgh, Pa)

There is so much stress that i go through and i am only 17. When i go to school i am always worried of what kids will think of me and how they will react. I am so nervous during class that i might embarass myself that i have to leave several times. Because of the constant leaving its so hard to concentrate and get through the day. I wish i could have a break from ibs, its really taking a toll on me. My family says not to worry and not to be nervous but i can't, i just can't help but worry. Instead of having fun with my friends, i am always nervous. I've had enough

Pain. Pain.Pain

by Siân@IBS-life
(West Country, UK)

I think the title says it all. It's worse. Painkillers don't help. I have no Colofac, which might, I don't know. All I have had is tea and water and my bowels seem to be knotting and writhing like snakes; awful pain, terrible wind.

I know what has caused it, but it is out of my hands. As soon as I worry, I can count down the time from my *fear* to when the IBS spasm hits me. I know it is not my diet, because that is plain and very much the same day after day. No, it is quite simply anxiety, and there is so much to be frightened about, to feel helpless about, that I cannot control it or treat it. I just want to scream it all out.

These are the times when you simply want some-one to knock you unconscious for a long time until the IBS has passed. :(

why cant they understand?

by stephanie
(florida)

I am so sick of hearing that my problems are all in my head and that nothing is wrong with me...i have been battling ibs for 7 years and i just wish that everyone in the world had to deal with what i deal with for one day...thats all im askin just so they can see what its like to be in my shoes...to have no control over your body and digestive system...it sucks and to be criticized about it on top of that really sucks...i would never ever make fun of someone becuz of an illness so why does my own family think that because i have ibs they can take cheap shots at me about it...i mean its one thing if its my boss or coworkers but my own family doesnt even understand. Im sick of having to do everything differently because of one problem and they dont get that i already have enough problems not bein in control with my bowels i dont need their snide remarks or full out criticism too!

Accutane victim

by Brian
(New York)

Hi Everyone,

Decided to post this diary because I was curious if anyone else had been experiencing problems with IBS-D who had taken a medication called Accutane? I took this drug given to me by my dermatologist when I was 17. Had having no previous problems with digestion, I was shocked when I had to start using the bathroom at school once or twice a day. The frequency, urgency, and consistency all started worsening after the years. After taking numerous tests, and going to countless doctors, I still suffer everyday.
Just a year ago, I was at home watching television when commercial about a class action lawsuit against Accutane came on. Thousands of people had reported developing crohns, colitis, IBD, and IBS from Accutane. I knew as soon as I saw it, that it was likely the cause of my IBS.
I've joined the lawsuit, but am still awaiting the results. Even though there is a lot of attention about the lawsuit on the internet, there is little discussion of treatment for the victims. I just wanted to reach out and see if anyone else reading has experienced problems connected with Accutane, and whether or not you've found any solutions?

Depression

by stephanie
(florida)

I feel helpless, lonely and misunderstood. My IBS has chased away hopes, dreams, friendships, relationships, and anything good that a normal person experiences. I hate life! I am always in pain. I hate that I have alienated myself from everybody and there is nothing i can do about it. I want to die. Life has no meaning. I have a job but it makes me suffer even worse. I cant stand the thought of up to 60 more years of this. I want it to be over now. What do I do? Why is there no help for me, no cure? I have gotten used to the otc medicines like imodium and pepto bismol and a few others...They dont help anymore. I am just so sick of being sick. Why cant it just be over?

Em's Ibs

by Em
(UK)

Hey, I'm 22 years old and have had IBS since i was about 15, and since it was diagnosed i have been able to live with it pretty well without it having an effect on my life.


That was until my family decided to move from the UK to Canada, and the major stress that this move caused really effected my IBS to the point where when i was in Canada i was eating practically nothing because whatever i did caused me pain and i was extremely unhappy.

Since moving back to the UK (i moved october 08 and back to uk feb 09) things have improved a bit but it has never really gotten back to the way it used to be. I have tried many things none of which have had any effect on my IBS what so ever.

My main IBS problem is i have continuous bloated pain all the time that has never gone, that makes me not want to eat much at all so it's hard for me to put on weight and lots of people who don't know i have IBS think that i'm anorexic which i hate!! I also have added pain that comes and goes which can be horrendous and last for hours and hours to the point where i can't sleep go out or concentrate on anything which makes doing uni work hard for me because i get this kind of pain on a daily basis.

I just wondered if anyone else has these types of symptoms because all though i have really bad pain most of the time i do not have constipation or diarrhea and my bowl moments are pretty normal, even though sometimes the pain makes me feel like i'm going to have diarrhea!

Thanks for reading if you got this far!!

Em

Struggling on....

by Yarnie
(UK)

Feeling a bit fed up now really. Started a new job last week and really thought I'd find things easier. But it's still an ongoing struggle. Worrying about needing the toilet in the office. Worrying about going out of the office in case I need the loo. Got a really important meeting tomorrow morning and am anxious about going into a panic and needing the leave for the toilet. Fed up with dreading doing the things in my personal life that I actually WANT to do. Long to just be able to do things and look forward to it and enjoy it. Mood gets miserable and I feel like eating. Worried to eat in case it sets the IBS off. Tried so many things to overcome these issues, even the mental health team don't know how to help me now! So frustrated!

IBS and Acid Reflux is keeping me awake

by Norma
(Florida, USA)

Here I am sat up in bed at 4 in the morning with both IBS symptoms and acid reflux.
I've got a busy day ahead and once again IBS is playing it's part in spoiling things for me as it has done for many years. I know by this afternoon I will be tired and irritable, not really the best position to be in as a Grandma looking after her grandkids.

I've taken some apple cider vinegar for the acid reflux, a handy little discovery I made a while back thanks to the Internet. I know many will scoff at the idea of drinking what is essentially acid to cure an acid-based issue, I know I was reluctant to try at first, but with so many people reporting that it worked, I gave it a try and to my surprise the acid reflux disapeared.

I can feel it working now and the reflux is subsiding. Now all I need is for my stomach to settle down and perhaps I can try to get some more sleep before morning.

Note to self; stop storing the laptop next to the bed!

Leaky Gut And Autoimmune Disease

by Tom Wilkins
(Ohio)

Thanks to everyone who put this website together and to everyone who contributes to it. It's nice to see a community of people who are committed to the subject. I'm 25 years old and have had IBS for about two years. I've tried just about everything and I'm not sure I can say that there's anything that's particularly effective. Ginger root pills are probably the most helpful, with prescription antispasmodics taking a close second. I once thought that probiotics and enzymes were helpful, but now I'm not so sure. I think stress plays the biggest role, and it's difficult to eliminate stress when you're a college student who also works part time and is active in several groups.

I haven't explored this website much yet, but I haven't seen anything about leaky gut syndrome (intestinal permeability) yet. I find that theory the most fascinating. I once read that leaky gut syndrome causes food particles to seep out of the intestines and get into the bloodstream. This creates an immune response as the body attacks the food particles and throws the immune system out of whack, causing autoimmune disease. That would explain my psoriasis and IBS, both of which are suspected autoimmune diseases.

I went through a phase of eating lots of spicy food, and I was also taking aspirin almost daily at the time. I believe that spicy food combined with aspirin tore my stomach apart, leading to a high degree of intestinal permeability, which ultimately caused my psoriasis and IBS. Now it seems that any type of food is an irritant, which makes sense given the leaky guy theory. I guess the question then becomes, how does one regenerate the intestinal walls so that they don't leak? I'm currently taking bovine colostrum in hopes that that might help.

However, the brain-gut connection is also a very important consideration. But what comes first: intestinal permeability or a brain-gut breakdown? I would say that intestinal permeability causes the brain-gut connection to get thrown out of whack. But then how do you retrain your brain to digest normally? I would like to think that once the intestines are restored to optimal health that the brain could retrain itself to digest normally. All of this, of course, is pure speculation, as I am not a doctor and probably have no idea what I'm talking about. I'm just going with my gut, no pun intended.

Lonely,Scared,And Sad

by Jose cardenas
(Atwater,california)

i Had ibs Since i was 12 iAm 15 now and its hard to life like this i dont have friends at all cuz i cant go nowere .iCant even leave the house :( i had 4 treatments and had day surgery and nothinq is helpinq . i am mexican italian and i been told the only way to beat it is to pray to god or have a spiritual spell to make you feel better and i tryed the spiritual and i was shocked it worked i was happy and could leave he house and i felt like i was when i didnt have ibs . so like 2 months later it came back and i went to councelinq,theripist and alot more i miss ALOT of school and i feel stupid ,i just wanna be normal :( its hardd to be like this .my teachers somtimes dont belive me . i been havinq independent high school for 1 year and it is hard even tho its 1 time a week . i lost point in living i dont know why it had to be me i need help before i get more depressed and end up dead cuz i really hate my life i just wish this world can understand us people with ibs especialy the ones who dont belive us , the ones who made fun of us .i Hope people read this cuz just writinq this brings tears down my eyes cuz i feel like ima be like this forever . i just wanna be cured :(.

advice please about this problem

by ruby
(london)

hi i have been diagnosed with ibs ,i have been having constant stomach pain for about 2 months now, i get constipated alot.
i eat healthy whatch what i eat taking pills nothing works its affecting my job as i am acashier and in my job there are stand up and sit down tills ,i cant stand up as long as the pressure of standing makes my stomach hurt more also i get a achy feeling in my bottom anyone lse experience ths with ibs.

I have recently discovered my problem!!

by Lydia
(Orem, UT)

I'm 17, and although I've not been official diagnosed, I am 98% sure I have IBS. I only discovered that I have it when I looked it up online a couple of weeks ago. I looked it up because when I went on band tour about 2 months ago I had a stomach pain, which I feel a lot, but this one was MUCH worse than normal. I was shivering so bad! It felt like chills and I just felt the strongest, most frustrating urge to relief myself. Do any of you ever get chills? Problem was, I was on a bus. I got off pretty soon but I couldn't explain how bad it was to anyone! No one actually took me seriously. I'm so relieved to have people to tell this to. Sorry for everyone else who has it worse off than me!

Beyond belief!

by Kevin
(Surrey. UK.)

There are times when I think to myself that this cannot be IBS and has to be something terminal instead.

After suffering for over 2 years now with bad stomach pain mainly in the top right quardrant and under the lower right rib, I have endured the trips to A and E, blood tests, urine analysis, x-rays, gallbladder removal, endoscopies and finally a colonoscopy, all with negative results and outcome.

I am due to see the consultant in 2 weeks so that will be a laugh to see what they suggest this time!

My life has changed considerably to the effect that I can very rarely go out anymore. I definately cannot work because no one is willing to employ someone who is never there because they are in so much pain. My discomfort is always in the way of stomach pain as oppose to needing the loo. I will have bad pain after a bowel movement (normally under right rib again) and this will last for most of the day! Standing is nigh imossible so it is important that I sit down as the pain is less severe.

Occasionally, it will be a case of trapped wind, which of course in itself is excrutiating. Sadly, Buscopan and Omeprazole appear to do nothing. Occasionally I did get relief from Charcoal Tablets but still suffered the discomfort after a bowel movement. I'm 56.

Am I the only one who has pain after going to the loo!

Kevin.

why do we only have one bathroom??

by stephanie
(florida USA)

ok so i have been living with ibs for about 7 years...and we only have one bathroom so it really sucks...and on top of all of that my dad and brother take a bath or shower everyday...and it is really stressful im thinking about getting one of the portable toilets and seeing if that helps. but i just hate how i can be fine one minute and then the second my dad or brother says they are goin to take a bath it is like an eruption goes off in my stomach...like a volcano..it is just a big inconvenience so i either try to be asleep when they are bathing or i try my best to meditate but i have a dog and a brother so meditating is very hard...and i dont like how many times i end up being in the bathroom..i feel like i am getting in the way or causing problems for them because them getting ready for work or school takes 2x as long because my stomach tells me i need to get in there and use that restroom...i just feel bad and i hate that something is wrong with me...sry for venting but that is how im feeling right now

IBS - don't know what to do

by Kitty
(UK)

I haven't officially been diagnosed with IBS but the doctor has suggested it and after looking on this site, all the symptoms fit.
I've been suffering for about a year - not long compared to some of you.
It's usually diarrhea and gas, so much pain that I can hardly breathe or move. When it's bad I usually feel sick.
Some days are ok but I never feel 'normal'.
Recently I've had a flare up and had to take time off work. I am scared to death because I am still in probation period and don't want a bad sick record.
I am so depressed by feeling like this, just tired all the time and irritable.
My boyfriend has been amazing but he's now said he's sick of me being ill all the time because it gets him down and he wants a normal life and relationship back. He knows it's not my fault but to be honest, I don't blame him.

I am due to go back to the doctor's in a few weeks but I am not encourage by everyone's stories about whether they can actually help me.

I am frightened and lonely and I have no idea where to go from here. I hope that people on this forum at least will understand.

Thank god there are people like me...

by Erika
(Canada)

I just found this site and am glad that there are people out there who know exactly how I'm feeling. I'm 22 years old and have been suffering from IBS-D since i was 17. I ended up graduating from high school through correspondants because I couldn't face the idea of having to use the bathroom at school. I'm not at all down-playing how it must feel for a guy but I feel I can definetly say it is worse to be a girl in that situation because they are considerably more judgemental. I am lucky that I have a few solid good friends that have stood by me through this. There are days when I feel robbed. Absolutely robbed of the freedom that non-IBS sufferers take for granted every day. I am all too familiar with the idea of wondering what the hell I ever did to deserve this. I used to have an iron stomach, I could eat anything! And then WHAM!!! I have now gained some weight back but when I first started suffering I didn't know what was wrong with me. I started taking 4 or more doses of Immodium a day! I lived like that for 2 years. I became so paranoid that I'd have an attack that I'd overload on Immodium and eat basically 1 tiny piece of chicken or chocolate in 3 days. I ended up dropping 30 pounds in a month (I'm 5'4/135 lbs) so it was significant. At first my brothers/dad/doctors told me it was all in my head. They asked me if i was anorexic. I cant tell you how many times I went to my doctor with the same symptoms and got the ever famous "It's all in your head," response. I avoid certain social events on a regular basis. I've had so many unexpected attacks that it had made me paranoid of certain situations. I'm alright if I feel I'm around people that understand, and somewhere with a decent private washroom. It's amazing how many woman (all ages) will still snicker when you use the washroom. Seriously? It's amazing. People who don't have it truly don't understand. I'm a server/bartender at a high-end restaurant that I just started at. My old job I was at for 5 years and although having an attack was unpleasant, they knew about my condition so I was a little more comfortable. I used to use the guest washrooms there so I could hide my condition from my co-workers. Now, at the new job I am too embarrassed to let my bosses know about my IBS and we are not allowed to use the guest washrooms. There is only 1 staff washroom in the back so there is no hiding an attack if it happens. I am reverting back to my old ways of only eating on my days off. I'm scared of the effect this will have on my body. I love food, I'm not an anorexic but I feel trapped and that I will suffer like one because of this stupid stupid situation. I understand the way the service industry works, I feel like people with IBS would be more understanding because they might actually think about something like this but the next time you need something right away and your server isnt there automatically. Try to think twice, they might be having an attack in the back somewhere, before you get pissed. I can't help it! And the worst part is, is that the busier I get it sets me off! My boyfriend tries to be understanding but I feel guilty because I feel he will resent me eventually because I can't do certain things. Can't make plans in advance. Can't go to his friends apartment in the city where the tiny washroom is right off the living room and has no window. Can't go to a bar unless I havent eaten for the past 48 hours, god forbid i should have an attack in those tiny washrooms and be ridiculed for it. As for a cure? I havent found anything yet. I do feel that avoiding triggers and exercising regularily does help. Try eating smaller meals on a regular basis and get your body on a schedule. If your reading thanks for listening to my rant, feels good to get it out.

Absolutely miserable and borderline hopeless

by vanessa renee
(michigan)

Is 321 am and i am still awake. my whole midsection just feels horrid. i have a terrible headache and im waiting for my milk of mag to kick in. All day ive felt this way. the headache just set in so it wasn't as bad earlier. i woke up feeling like my stomach was empty like it was throbbing and aching. probably one of the weirdest feelings. i just wish this would all go away...

How it all began... How it is now.

by Katie
(US)

I'm a 16 year old girl and I was diagnosed with IBS my freshman year in high school. That was a little over 2 years ago. I remember going to school with the worst cramping! I'd be hunched over and my friends would always look at me sad, but they didn't know what to do! I remember going to one of my math classes one day and I felt like I was going to puke; but puking, I think is the best part because a lot of the time it makes me feel better afterwards. Whereas, when the cramping is happening and you feel nauseous but you know you're not going to barf anytime soon, that's terrible because then it won't go away. But I'm too afraid to hit my uvula, and the last time I tried it, it wouldn't work anyway.
So I remember, freshman year, when the doctor was trying to figure out what was wrong with me and I had an MRI. They made me drink that chalky stuff and then scanned me. So I felt fine that day and then right after, my mom dropped me off at school. Then, I felt so sick so I went to the restroom and threw up the chalky stuff. Which made me feel loads better.
So I am assuming that others were misdiagnosed with ACID REFLEX before the doctors actually figured out what was wrong. That was with me. And what sucked is because they misdiagnosed it, I didn't get the proper medicine to help it. Then they found out I had an ulcer!! So, I had to take medicine for that- but it went away.
So, tonight I had that nauseating feeling, the kind I mentioned where you just wish you'd throw up! Well, I've come to realize that having IBS has brought me alot closer to God. I don't know about anyone else, but I know my mom's agnostic and she thinks it's kinda weird. But if you met my mom, whenever I have epidemics that last so long and all I do is throw up(which usually occurs at night) my mother would rather sleep. My parents are divorced so I don't have my dad, and my sister doesn't care. I can't say that my mom doesn't care because she does, but sometimes the throwing up gets so exhausting and it really starts to hurt, then I get upset which makes it worse, and my mom isn't there. And I just want her to hold my hand or something because the spasms can really hurt. But she doesn't want to.
So yes, about God. When my mom stopped being there for me when I threw up or when I was at home sick and she was at work, I'd talk to God because he was always there. I felt so lonely when I first got IBS because I was at home alot because the doctors hadn't found the right medication yet so I'd stay home quite often. So, being alone I wanted someone to talk to so I started talking to God. I'd cry to him about the pain, because he listened. I would talk to him about anything to distract me from the pain, and it usually worked. I feel like he really helps me get through my epidemics. But of course I still pray to him every night! :D It's nice always having someone to talk to though, it really helps me.
So, last year, sophomore year, I had the WORST epidemic everrr! So here it is...
I was new to my current school sophomore year and I didn't get too good of a start. And by time 2nd semester came around I was so scared of my new classes that changed. I worried myself sick! Literally! So, the new semester started on a Wednesday and I went to school but in first hour I felt sooo nauseous! But I waited it out because my teacher scared me, lol. Then by 2nd hour, CHOIR! I was crying because it hurt so bad. My teacher told me to go to the nurse and I did, went home, thew up, mom took me to the hospital for a checkup because I hadn't had a problem in a while. I don't remember what they said. I stayed home Thursday.
BTW! Living with IBS, if you go to school, I'm sure you take every opportunity to go to school while you feel good because (I know I do) you miss so much school that you have make-up work all over the place! And I hate make-up work!
Back to the story... By the time Friday came, it was about half-way through the day, I told me mom I wanted to go to school- and I felt fine! So everything was good. Then by the time supper came around I wasn't feeling too good again so I went to bed early.
I woke up at about 2 in the morning, throwing up. I stayed there the rest of the night dry heaving till I started puking up blood, by this time it was 6 in the morning and my mom decided to take me to the emergency room.
I had trouble standing up straight which my mom scolded me for. But I guess that's what happens when you dry-heave for about 5 hours on end into a toilet. The nice nurse ladies hooked me up to an IV and told me to sleep because I was EXHAUSTED. But I couldn't because my bowels and such hurt so bad! So they gave me sleep medication and medicine that stopped the constant puking- and I woke up at 10 am. FELT AMAZING! And went home.
That last one is about as crazy as I've had it. I'm very glad that this website is here. It makes me feel less lonely and more aware that their are people like me! :)

Severe Pain

by MJohnston
(Canada)

I titled this entry severe pain because I feel that is all my life is wrapped around sometimes. I'm 25 years old, and have been living with this pain for 8 years now. I'm hoping this will help someone out there searching for a story involving severe or chronic symptoms associated with IBS.
It took me two years, so many doctors and test that required to put me out for in the hospital to be told that he wasn't completely sure what was wrong, just that there was inflammation found, and it was most likely IBS.
I don't know if anyone else feels this way, I've tried looking up story after story about what people go through with pain associated with IBS, and have found nothing similar, so if there is someone else out there with the same pain, please - Write about it!

I started getting this pain in my upper left side when I was 17. It started out as a twinge, to full out contracting pain within the upcoming months. Back than I have to say it still wasn't as bad as it is now a days. Most people talk about how embarressing it is to be out in public and they start to feel the discomforts of pain, and need to find the nearest washroom. For me it's much different. I've gotten to know how my digestion works just by where the pain is located. Sometimes it feels as if I can feel the entire process going through my bowels. I am guessing this is when I have inflammation.

What is embarressing is the crippling pain I get just before I have to use the washroom, or while I am going. It doesn't happen everytime, I take advantage of what I concider long period of time when I have no pain at all. Sometimes it last a week.. sometimes I get lucky and I can go three weeks without severe pain, discomfort is always a given.
I don't talk to people about what I go through, because being so young people don't take you seriously, and it surprised me to find out how uncomfortable people are around a person who is going through extreme pain. I got so well at hiding it from people. But the pain got worse, and came on more unexpected.
I am most afflicted right after I get up, so living with my boyfriend it got harder and harder to hide it. Very few people have seen me fall over in pain, but when it happens all I can do is hold my abdomin and cry. The contractions, or whatever my GI tract is doing is just so painful, it almost feels like I'm passing razor blades. As of lately I have a sneaking suspiction that I might be passing gullstones aswell. I don't have hemmroids, that was all cleared by my doctor. Its even difficult for me to try and explain how whenever my Gastrointestinal Tract starts to contract causes pain that radiates all the way through.

The worst thing I worry about is passing out from the pain on the toliet. I start to get really hot and nausious. Thats when I hold onto something and pray.
I can't drink juices of any kind now, nore soda's. Alcohol is out of the question, unless I have a full day off to recover. Tea, milk, and water is the only thing that doesn't worsen my condition.

I've never come across anyone talking about other symptoms associated with IBS, or read much about it, so I am wondering if anyone else out there may have arthritis type symptoms related to their IBS. I know malabsorbtion can cause this. My legs and hips are the most effected, making it difficult to walk for days, or more than a week. Thankfully it goes away with more rest I get, and if I stick to my weekely vitimin intake. If I didn't have my vitamins I wouldn't be able to function. I have a B-12, and Iron difficency.

Does anyone else deal with the same issues? I feel I need some kind of hope that I can get through this, and get better, because I am only 25, and I already feel like I am 50 on some days.

Today just isnt great

by Megan
(WV)

I been suffering from constipation and abdominal pain, bloating for about 4 yrs now. Just been diagnosed with IBS. Its hard, I stay in pain, and sick to my stomach all the time, I cant go out and fdo things for fear of possible vomiting. It gets old! Sitting in the house gets old too...

Never ending

I have had severe colon spasms for the last three days, and diarrhoea whenever I eat, so I am just drinking today. Also have pains under my ribs and right up into my face. I missed a big family meal today, and am sure the family dont believe just how I feel.

IBS MANAGEMENT PILL VERY EFFECTIVE

(Australia)

I live in Australia, I'm female 28 years old and I live with the dreaded IBS. When I was 20 years old things in my life were not going well and stress was building up, and I began to have stomach problems. Then I moved out later that year and things got progressively worse. All the things everyone has mentioned before about IBS the diarrhea, the constipation the terrible pain and the issues with maintaining a life style like simple things, like going to work or going to university. I cant tell you how my supervisors hated me for always calling in sick and I was enemy number 1. I went to the doctor like most people do and I was told to use Buscapan or the peppermint pill which was used to ease the pain. At first this worked but as time went on and the pain got worse it simply didn't do the trick and it was expensive too. Then after watching an advertisement on tv about IBS support pill I decided to give it a go. This too was expensive at between $24-$30 a bottle containing 30 pills, you are supposed to take one a day. After a couple of weeks of taking it I found it worked really well. And over months to come my IBS only occurred infrequently and it was no longer controlling my life. This pill is ETHICAL NUTRIENTS IBS SUPPORT. Its a natural medicine that contains 20 billion Lactobacillus plantarum (299v)organisms. Google it to find out more, but basically this pill has the stuff that people with IBS lack or things that cause it. I'm not a scientist so I wont go into it. For this to work though it has to be taken every day and you cant stop otherwise the IBS will return. I don't take it everyday anymore unless my IBS flares up as I stay at home and I don't have as much stress in my life. But give it a try, cant hurt and remember its all natural. Yay.

No one else understands

by Anna
(Australia)

I have suffered from IBS for ten years now, I have gone through periods where it hasnt been so bad, and then periods of frequent 'episodes'. I have just attempted a dinner out with friends but have come home after having to run to the bathroom to deal with an attack. Instead of risk another attack and spending the night in a restaurant bathroom, I have come home. My partner does his best to understand but I can tell he gets frustrated at my constantly avoiding going out, and then leaving early other times. He also gets frustrated on holidays when i dont want to go too far from the hotel or the like. He does care, and i always tell him not to let my problems stop him from doing things. But i know he would like a partner who can go out to dinners, can go on holidays, go to the shops etc. I wish I could be a more normal girlfriend for him.

Fed up and miserable

by Julie
(Essex, England)

Its 4.00am in the morning, ive been up over an hour with bad stomach pain, upset stomach and feeling so sick. Im so tired but scared to go to sleep now in case i get woken up again with the feeling sick. that seems to be one of my main symptoms. i feel like i get it every day and to be honest now am literally 'sick' of it. Ive developed a phobia to being sick, (although i never am) because i feel sick all the time with my ibs. im currently trying a hypnotherapy cd to see if this can help de-stress me and rid me of my phobia. i hate going out now incase my ibs strikes and the pain and upset stomach can come on so suddenly i have to run to the toilet. i have a 20 month old son, who i sometimes struggle to look after when im feeling so ill, this makes me feel guilty as he doesnt understand why mummy cant play with him. i get so depressed sometimes as i dont sleep well cos im always on edge and just spend some times crying alone, wondering when this will all end and i can have my life back. any tips anyone can give me will be much apprieciated.

Hell

by Kelly
(Canada)

I've got IBS C at 17 and didn't find out til I was 19. It took docs way too long to find out that I have IBS and not other illnesses that were ruled out after one test after another. By then it got severe. I'm 27 now and my c has been worse since March of this year.It's making me so depressed I'm always crying because the symtoms are insane. I keep switching my diet, and trying one remedy after another. Medication will not help and makes things worse. I can not work due to the symptoms I have around the clock and so I have to live at home with my mom. I can't take it anymore.Constipation, insmomnia, frequent urinating, gas, cramps, gas pressure, gas pains, severe periods every month,headaches, tiredness, joint pain, trapped gas. I have so many symptoms it's crazy.

So, What Do We Do About The Nausea? (By Siân@ IBS-Life)

by Siân@Ibs-Life
(UK)

I get many, many emails from people talking about their struggle with nausea, and it is something I have had since I was sixteen, long before I was diagnosed with IBS. My mother always had a sensitive stomach, and said she inherited that from her father, so when I started to get nauseous, it was a case of heredity.

At its worse, I would feel pea-green sick for days on end. I would sip a bit of thin soup, and that was it. I tried everything (apart from prescription medication.) I will list the things I have tried: you may wish to try them.

Sometimes my nausea was caused simply by trapped wind (gas) and certain remedies would help to shift it.

Magnesium Trisilicate powder/liquid.

When I first tried this it came in a chalky powder to be mixed with a bit of water and drunk. (It is still sold but usually as a pre-mixed liquid.)
This was very cheap and actually quite effective for trapped wind.

Antacid tablets such as Bisodol/Tums/Settlers.

Again, surprisingly effective for trapped wind.

Andrews Liver Salts.
This is fizzy, when mixed with water, and I think the fizz displaces the trapped wind -- I know people who swore by drinking Ginger Ale or cola when they felt sick, but it's all in the bubbles, I believe.

Maalox suspension (similar to Milk of Magnesia)

Again, not bad for wind or a sickness in the upper stomach, or gastric reflux.

Pepto Bismol.

This is advertised as being effective again nausea, diarrhea and bloated-ness. I do find it quite effective at times. In my mid-twenties I almost lived on it.

Beer. (British ale.)

Sounds very strange, I know, but a lot of men say it is effective. Again, I think it's a case of a lot of liquid displacing gas in the stomach and making you burp. It does work.

Soda water.

Like beer, Andrews, Ginger Ale, this makes you burp. Sometimes, gross as it may sound, you feel 100 per cent better if you get rid of all that trapped gas.

Ginger (As tea or capsules)

Ginger has been used as a remedy for nausea for about 4,000 years. Most effective in concentrated capsules or as a strong tea. Peel the ginger root, slice and simmer in about a pint of water for 20 minutes,. Cool and add honey or lemon to taste. If it hits the back of your throat and burns, you've used too much ginger. I have done this numerous times, but it does help nausea. I actually found the capsules worked better over a longer period of time. I think it important to note here, that most natural remedies, such as ginger or peppermint, need to be taken over a course of weeks, and every day, to be really effective. It is no good at all taking a capsule occasionally, or for a few days. If it says take 3 or 4 or 6 capsules per day, follow that religiously for about four to six weeks.

Peppermint.

This is supposed to work by soothing the intestines, and again, this needs to be taken for weeks at the highest dosage. Peppermint tea (left to steep for at least ten minutes, and using two teabags, is quite good for nausea. Ginger tea is the same, double-bag, and steep for ten minutes.)

Metoclopramide.

This is a prescribed medication I take sometimes. Oddly, sometimes it works, and sometimes it does not. I have no idea why. I do not like to take it often due to the listed side effects, but at times, I will take anything if it is purported to work.

Kaolin mixture.

This used to be sold as Kaolin and Morphine, before people began swigging bottles of it because of the effect of the morphine. (That is absolutely true.) Now it is Kaolin only, and sold in bottles. It's a white, aniseed-y flavor liquid, which is pretty effective for stomach upsets and diarrhea. (Also nausea, I find.)

Gravol.

I have never tried this, although I know people in the US and Canada who take it for nausea and upset stomachs. I have never seen it sold in the UK, and no doctor has ever prescribed it to me; neither do any of the other brand names sound familiar. Possibly it's not sold in the UK, although I find that hard to believe.
It's supposed to be effective, but makes one drowsy.

Acidophilus and Probiotics.

I find these to help digestion rather than have a direct effect on nausea, (but in the long term they also help with nausea.) and should be part of a daily diet. The tablet form are stronger and apparently the only form to truly work. I have heard the little drinks you buy, make no difference whatsoever, but I also know people who drink Yakult and find it re-balances their stomach wonderfully.


Intolerance...

Some people, while not precisely allergic to certain foods, can be intolerant, which can truly make you feel ill, with bloating, diarrhea and nausea. It's impossible, without a test, to know what you might be intolerant to; it could be gluten, it could be an added sweetener in drinks, (those used in diet drinks especially) and unless you spend some time for instance, no eating bread, and feel better for it, you might not know if you are allergic to wheat, or gluten. I have had to gradually eliminate certain foods to see what upsets me. I do believe I have a slight intolerance to wheat, but I prefer to pretend I don't, as it is not bad enough to stop me eating wholemeal bread.


At the end of the day, every person with IBS is unique, and some remedies will work better than others. It's not a good idea to *layer* remedies: taking three things at once -- I have tried that in desperation! But if you take, for instance, Pepto Bismol and find it's not working, then try something else.
Nausea is one of the most debilitating things about IBS, sometimes you literally cannot move with it -- it makes me feel as if I am walking on the deck of a ship at sea and if I put my foot down too hard, I will start vomiting and never be able to stop. Many times, I have found this is due to trapped wind, and once that is released, I do feel better.

IBS and Chrons Disease

by Vanessa
(Gibraltar)

I’ve had IBS and Chrons Disease since I was 17. 26 this December, and my doctors and specialist are complete rubbish, I’ve been on medication since 17 and it hardly works. I don’t trust the surgery as it’s only a 50/50 chance and even then you can still have infections and more surgery.

When is there going to be a complete 100% cure for Chrons and IBS sufferers. I’ve got a tens machine and that only relieves for a short while and my medication, well, I’ve had enough of taking pentasa granules, steroids I have to take when I’m really bad.

I really need help with this, it even stops me from making hair appointments! And when I do go out and about when I’m feeling better there’s still a chance that I’ll get a shots of pain through my stomach as I’m walking. My specialist even said I can’t have the injections because my symptoms for chrons and IBS aren’t bad enough, they just don’t want to pay for the injections!

Can anyone help me???

Levator Syndrome and IBS

by Beth
(Indianapolis, IN)

I am having a really hard time right now. Very depressed and frustrated. I suffer with IBS and most trouble right now is with the Levator syndrome. I have Gastroparesis, recently diagnosed with an entrocele and rectocele. Went through specialized physical therapy, which did nothing but aggravate the spasms and pain. Then went to surgeon and he found several anal fissures. I went last Friday and had botox injections done. I experienced no relief in fact it seemed to get worse. I also have severe hemorrhoids and this seemed to really inflame them. Due to the Levator and hemorrhoids I can barely sit for any length of time. Being in the bath in hot water is about the only time I am not in horrible pain. The spasms/cramping and the sharp pain, the burning. I am just miserable. And now you can imagine what it's like since I am going to the bathroom lots! I am experiencing a lot of problems with my employer. They are not being understanding at all. I am covered under FMLA but they are just pushing me right out the door. A lot of pressure, feel threatened and harrassed. And it is a healthcare company. Pretty bad. I am currently applying and looking for another job. Not good timing, but I know the workplace in making my health worse. I pray every day to God. If it weren't for my faith, I don't know where I would be. I am only 39, single mom of a 13 year old daughter and an 8 year old son. This is very hard on them also. I am unable to do things like other parents and that is very upsetting. All of this really flares my Fibromyalgia and I am just exhausted.
I feel very blessed to have found this website and to have found someone that suffers with the Levator syndrome also.

Is it going to get any better? Any suggestions on what can help?

God Bless You.

18 and ibs is controlling my life

I'm eighteen and was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis when I was twelve I managed a remission though but I was left with horrible ibs... I can't even go to the store without having a panic attack before I get there... I never go to my bf's house for a fear of having to go... I'm becoming to not want to leave my home period... I hope I can get a handle on this soon I want a normal life I feel like I can't have a normal life because all I think about is... bathroom I refuse to do things where I'm away from one.

IBS is ruining my life

by Amelia Jane
(UK)

I'm 19, used to love going out, travelling etc. I was diagnosed with IBS 2 years ago. Now I not only spend at least half my waking hours in constant pain, my IBS has also caused me to become agoraphobic, depressed and anxious. I have not gone more than 25 yards from my front door for a week and I have spent the last 2 hours in tears. My boyfriend, understanding as he is, can't be around to console me 24/7, and as it's not something I want to tell all my friends about, I spend the majority of my life in my room nursing some form of pain and trying to not eat chocolate. I have a phobia of taking unfamiliar medicine, including herbal remedies so that's no good. I also have pretty bad acid reflux. I lost my job due to being ill all the time. And the doctor says there's not really anything I can do! Fabulous. I am 19, for Gods sake. I feel like I'm in my late-50s. Sorry for the moan. Having a bad day :(

Today is the Best Day of My Life

by Ariel
(USA)

I feel amazing. I love and approve of myself, and my life improves every day. I spent a significant chunk of my life suffering from severe IBS. It was so horrible, stressful and embarrasing that for many years I wished I were dead. Today my life is very different. I no longer put any toxins into or onto my body (that includes medication of all kinds, packaged food, refined sugar and flour, processed foods, chemical-containing deodorant, skin cream, and toothpaste, and negative thoughts.) I used to think that negativity, stress, and fake foods were just a part of life, but now I realize that they do not have to be. When I detoxed my body and mind and replaced all the toxins with positive thoughts, healthy organic fresh real food, and natural products, IBS went away. I cured myself and you can too. Good luck.

Can anyone relate to trying to appear "normal" out in the world?

by anonymous
(U.S.)

Can anyone relate to keepin up a "normal" facade?

I have had severe and in many ways debilitating IBS for over a decade. It has robbed what would have been my years of building a career, dating, having kids. Yet, I go out there and put on a brave face everyday, and other than lots of "there must be something wrong with you or you wouldnt'.(fill in the blank- be single, work here, etc..) I put on to people that I am totally normal because I am too embarrassed to admit I have IBS, am too private to have the I don't care what others think attitude. But the flipside of that is that when you try to explain to someone how devastating and horrifying the symptoms and life impact are, they think it mustn't be that bad becasue I am so "normal".
Does anyone get what I am saying. I am exhausted by the energy it takes to go out into life and pretend for whatever the number of hours is- that I am normal. And then I come home and collapse by myself, having kept it together all day. Anyone get it? And please, no offense, but I'm not looking for the cheerleaders to tell me I shouldn't care what anyone thinks. I do, period.

The Bare Arsed Facts about Crohn's Disease

by Melinda Vlakancic
(Australia)

I am SO very excited I want to shout out to the world !!

I have written a book - No-one was willing to publish it - But I did not give up - I self published it instead.

It is called The Bare Arsed Facts about Crohn's Disease and is available on line at www.poopndisaster.com.au

It has been such a long process - It took only a couple of months to write - However, the proofing, editing, graphics, printing and getting my website up and running has been challenging-

But Hooray Hooray - I am so proud that I now can say I have written a book and hopefully help so many other people that have rotten bowel diseases and reach out and let you know that you are not alone.

It is such an undignified disease and very hard to talk about personal subjects to people that are not going through what we go through on a daily basis.

Please look at my website and I welcome ALL feedback.

Have a spectacular day - The sun is shining here in Australia and so is my smile.

May you all get to the bathroom in time and eat lots of yummy soup to keep you warm.

Best regards

Melinda

My Life is really affected by IBS

by Melinda
(Michigan)

I have had IBS for many many years, even as a child except they didn't know what it was then. I also have reflux but is controlled with meds and not a problem. I used to also have to make stops, which was really a hassle and could never do anything like normal people do. First thing I do is find out where the bathroom is, where the next bathroom is, and try to figure out if I can make it there, all time consuming thoughts. We bought a motorhome just to be able to keep traveling, put a potty in our van "just in case". The past month and slowly building up from the last year, I have pretty much been home bound because I just don't have enough time to make it to that next stop and really don't have time to make it to the porta potty in my van, that's how bad I have come, along with the horrible pain now that accompanies my IBS. I have my first grandbaby, I can't go and see him because he lives 50 miles away, my husband and I run a wedding business and it really takes both of us at weddings, but he has been going alone or hiring out for someone to go with him. I am going out on the mission field with my husband and kids in a month and am terrible worried about what to do. I am so sick of life passing me by and my husband being a widower which is how I feel. I have been to dr's but everything they have tried doesn't work, I have a new appt this week but am so depressed because I feel like I'm just dying and no one will help me. If you have anything that works for you would you please post or give advice? My family is moving on without me and life is passing me by while I'm stuck in my home. Thank you all.

cross your fingers!

by stephanie
(florida)

so i was looking online for anything that might help with my ibs and i came across a website which talks about a doctors research with pancreatic enzymes that are supposed to help with ibs-d and that you can get a prescription from your doctor or if you dont have all that money you can try a supplement by source naturals called essential enzymes which has it in it and you take 1 to 2 capsules before each meal and its supposed to make it to where foods dont cause as much of a problem...so i ordered some and im hoping it works...if it does i will comment on this post or something letting you guys know...but im pretty excited...kinda getting my hopes up but im sick of ibs running my life.

Help! I Can't get out!

by Kim
(East Sussex)

So i'm 17 and i am suposed to be in college 4 times a week but i have not been going i am on my final warning and will be getting kicked out if i do not turn up, laterly since i have been taking the pill and eating quite alot of cheese and chocolate i have been getting the worst IBS, its not so much as the stomache aches they are mainly in the morning along with gasm.i can't really go out because when i need to go i really need to go, it happens most mornings :( how can i calm it down

Taking over my life!

by Leah
(Uk)

I've suffered with ibs since I was 17! I'm now 25! It's taken over my life! I can't work full time, can't go to friends houses... I'm so embarrassed! I've just recently been diagnosed with it by the doctor! I really have not told anybody I've tried to hide it! I just want to b normal but it's getting worse! It's afftcted my social life and love life! I feel like I can't get close to anybody because I'm soooo embarrassed!

IBS and work

(Australia)

Today I am off work because of a bad bout of IBS. It actually disappeared for about three weeks but now it has come back with a vengeance!

Yesterday I asked to work from home, because although I am unwell, I felt as long as I was in the pirvacy of my own home, near the toilet and able to lie in bed with a hot water bottle, I would be okay to continue with some light work.

This morning my stomach hurt and I now haven't been able to go to the loo for two days and so feel bloated and nauseous. I suggested working from home again, but got an email from my boss to say if I'm sick, I'm sick and not to do any work.

I suppose I just feel guilty for letting work down by having a sick day for something I have battled with for 16 years. More often than not I sit through the pain and embarrassment, but I suppose sometimes I feel like I deserve to take a break from it and rest at home.

A big thing for me is that I do feel my employers and to some extent work colleagues don't understand the condition. So I am at home worrying about being off work and what they think of me, as my role is managerial and so I will have left people in the lurch by not coming in.

I have been their for nearly six months and have taken two days sick due to IBS and one day working from home.

I went for blood tests yesterday, as still after 16 years I don't know what triggers it, and they want to rule out other things such as Coeliac.

I just get so fed up with having to explain it to people, and also I find that everyone expects you to be better the next day, but in my case, when I get a bout of IBS, it can last up to two weeks!

I am going camping for 8 days next week and a little worried about being on the road with this - the first drive is 12 hours! And if I don't go when I need to, I don't go for days.

IBS makes me feel tired and my confidence drops, when normally I am a happy and confident person. I am so bored of talking about 'my bad tummy' - I'm sure you all know what I mean!

Anyway, I am going to try not to worry about being away today and will go back into the office tomorrow. I'm sure I won't be getting a promotion, even though I work very hard... but oh well, health comes first!

my five year struggle with ibs

by autumn
(arizona )

I have known about myself having ibs for two years.The first three years i did not know . I have been through so much pain,And i am only eleven years old . I have read on ibs tales to make myself feel better ,And it has worked.I have lost lost my friend , And have been through major stress, technically she lost me . She said our friendship had to end .I feel like i am hanging from a wire , literally ,Everytime i came back from the bathroom ,And entered the classroom i would get constant stares .That is because my problem makes me spend a lot of time in the bathroom .Milk is my trigger. like many others This website has helped me through my constant struggle i am hoping to get advice !!! From arj

Everyday has been a struggle lately...

by Anonymous

I have been suffering from an IBS flare up that has now lasted nearly a month and a half. The worst is when it gets bad while I'm at work. I find it so hard to concentrate and just want to cry and go home (but I can't!). It is very frustrating. Even my husband is starting to feel the wrath of my IBS because he is the one who has to deal with me when I am not feeling well. What I cannot stand the most is the nausea. I have tried everything - going to a doctor, who prescribed a medicine for me that I can't even take because it makes my vision blurry and I can't drive, I've tried the BRAT diet, which hasn't helped at all, ginger ale, anti-diarrheal medicine, anti-gas medicine. My symptoms just keep coming back. I feel like I am at my witt's end dealing with IBS. I just don't know what to do anymore. Do I just accept my fate that I will never feel good and always have to be within several feet of a bathroom?

23 years old and losing it.

by Dan
(Pennsylvania)

I was recently diagnosed with IBS in March of 2010. I've been out of work since January 2010 when the pain and symptoms first started. Its June 2010 and the pain and embarrassment of having to go to the bathroom every 30 minutes or so has been devastating. I currently live with my girlfriend in our own apartment and after being off of work for 6 months my savings are gone. I am used to working hard and long hours and bringing in the most of the income into our family and it depresses me that I cannot continue. I have being going on and off medicines since they diagnosed me as IBS and it seems every time I think the medicine is working and I prepare myself to return to work it comes back and hits twice as hard before. Luckily I have long term disability benefits, but cannot get approved because they are constantly requesting more information. Due to this I am falling behind in bills and my girlfriends income alone does not cover all the bills easily which stresses me our even more and makes it worse. I used to avidly workout and that has come close to impossible. I have never heard of IBS until I was diagnosed with it and man can it ruin your day. I just hope the doctors find something soon that can help control it.

Stacey's Diary

by Stacey
(Manchester)

IBS has severly affected my university studies, and the anxiety has furthered my stress, making the IBS worse. My bowel habits are unpredictable, I can have constipation and suddenly have a rush of the runs the minute after. I communte to university which makes it a nightmare. The unpredictability and cramping, runs, constipation has meant that I can't attend nowhere near as many classes as I would like to.

It's upsetting me and has got to the stage where I have considered dropping university, getting a job; doing more for my IBS and starting university again next year.

Ruled by the bowel?

by Naz
(Cape Town, SA)

I don't know whether I have IBS. I do know that I have many of the symptoms.. the painful cramps immediately after a meal, the pregnantly looking bloated stomach that seems to get bigger everyday; the strange loud embarassing noises coming from abdomin which everyone can hear when I'm sitting in a quiet place; not too mention the gas...disgusting! Then there's also the constant craving for sweets and chocolates; not too mention biscuits and cake..Oh and let's not leave out the fungal infections that I keep treating.. and God knows, I'm not a dirty person... but I suffer candida, athletes foot and have other fungal breakouts between my breasts every so often...

I'm a beautiful woman.. but I'm lonely because I'm afraid of letting anyone see my body. I need to make this go away .. and live like a NORMAL human being. What's it going to take to just be NORMAL?

Another bad week at school

by Victoria
(Austen, Texas)

The weekend is finally here. It's been a long tedious week at school. The IBS has been particularly bad this week and I have been pushed almost to the brink of dispair withe the constant and endless torment from my stomach.

The weekend is my only rest from it because I am back in control of my day and I can choose whether or not to stay in or to go out. Most weekends I choose to stay in because it's just too stressful to go out. Going out is like running a gauntlet, never knowing if you will need the toilet at a moments notice.

I expect I'll spend most of the weekend worrying about what next week will bring, and whether the IBS nightmare will be a greater or lesser distraction than the previous week.

Aunt Flow :((

by stephanie
(florida)

omg ibs and menstrual cycles dont mix...the pain is almost crippling and it is definitely nauseating...almost enough to make me pass out...it makes me want to get a hysterectomy and im only 19...as if i dont have enough pain with ibs alone...OOWWWW!! that is all i have to say...thanks for letting me vent...i will be going to bed now for the next week...i dont want to move!!

Pain

Feeling terrible and in so much pain I can hardly stand it. I have kids to take care, college homework, no clean clothes and a messy house and no one will help. I don't know how much more pain I can stand! Don't know what to do except pray for pain relief.

Julie

by Julie

Several months ago i went through a phase where i couldn't open my bowels for up to ten days, i contacted this website which helped me enormously. I tried to change my diet but most importantly tried to increase my exercise and the amount of water i drunk. Over the last few months i have put weight on and on a bad day i look 6 months pregnant, which people think i am, i always feel quite bloated, and again my bowels have gone stubborn again despite me drinking plenty and having at least one walk a day. The worst part about it is i don't feel there is anything there to pass when i do try and go to toilet apart from lots flatulence. Have gained myself lots names due to this!!!!!Any ideas anyone???I do night and day shifts and when i am on nights i am so bloated and full of wind it is awful.xx

FEELING SO ALONE

by Katy
(Glendale Heights, IL, USA)

Had to call in sick to work today (again) horrible abdom. pains with pain in the lower back radiation upward, 2 bentyl's later feeling real drowsy and still having diarreah however the pain is gone for the most part...I'm 52 and have had this since I was in highschool, it's gotten much worse over the years and its really making work impossible lately. No one really understands...

New Ideas For 2011 from the IBS-Life Team

by Siân@Ibs-Life
(Wiltshire, UK)

In January, I like to think of the year ahead, although I am far too disorganized to plan. :)

However, Rick and Kev have been discussing some new features for the site, and we also have a new Podcast coming up very shortly.

I cannot personally say my IBS is cured. I tackle IBS every day, and am always looking for new ways to cope with it, and with the anxiety which increases it. The holiday season was not a good time at all, not from the food angle, since I did not even eat a Christmas dinner, but because in the UK, I have been told by my GP that every patient who is on Valium or sleeping tablets has to come off them. I am on a low dose of Valium (Diazepam), and have been for years. The doctor warned me there would be withdrawal effects, and I am reducing very, very slowly, but still do not feel well. This makes my anxiety worse. I need to see a doctor to discuss it, but am too riddled with panic to get on a bus to go there. So, a vicious circle ensues. I may mention this on the Podcast, since my IBS is solely caused by stress, now that I have identified the foods that trigger it, and I am deeply upset about this situation.

Take care every-one, I hope you will keep an eye on the site for the new Podcast, and for the new features.

Best wishes,

Siân@IBS-Life.

Weeks Of Constant IBS

by Siân
(Wiltshire, UK)

Hi every-one,

We all know that IBS is hard to talk about, even to family, and especially on something as public as a website. But the point of IBS-Life was for us to show that we were real faces, real people, with real problems and that we did not see IBS as shameful or embarrassing. We will read all blogs and respond to comments, so please never feel that you are alone.

We do monitor all comments to keep this site a friendly place, and will not tolerate inappropriate content, but if IBS impacts your life in any way, whether you are a sufferer or have a partner or friend who suffers IBS, please fell free to share your experiences. This will help every-one who reads, since we can know we are not isolated.

We at IBS-Life will regularly contribute, but we wish to spread the awareness of IBS and help one another to endure it, together.

I would like to share the fact that since before Christmas I have had a long, painful, nauseating bout of IBS which made me perfectly miserable and very tired.

I get up in the morning early (5.15 a.m.) to make Kevin a flask of coffee, a cup to drink and pack his lunch for work. He uses the bathroom himself for ten minutes before coming downstairs.

During that time, while I make his coffee and myself a cup of tea, I am struck by stomach cramps and the urgent, very, very urgent need to use the bathroom. Sometimes I literally cry. There is only one bathroom in this house and I am terrified that I will not be able to use it in time. This is a horrible start to the day and has lasted weeks now. It is stressful, painful and often leaves me feeling sick. I have experienced this before, and been to the doctors, but they can do nothing and eventually it eases.

If any-one is in the same situation, or suffering similar symptoms, please know that I fully understand and sympathize.

Take care

college with ibs

i have just left school and now im in college studying beauty therapy . i keep missing days off because of these irrital pains in my stomach and most times im on the bus on the way there and i have to get straight off again. i really feel really disapointed in my self which i know this disorder isnt my fault but im wasting time and i will never get this qualification that iv always wanted.

Alone, and hopeless

by Sherri
(Saskatchewan, Canada)

I have been diagnosed with IBS several years ago even though I have had symptons for 10 years. Once diagnosed, the specialist wouldn't even meet with me to consult, he had my GP tell me I had IBS. Nobody is taking the time to help me manage it. The pain I suffer is unexplainable, worse than childbirth honestly. I have no resource to help me deal with this. I don't even believe the specialist even bothered to eliminate other issues, just went right to IBS. I suffer daily, leave work all the time, am prisoned in my own home cause i don't go out for supper, away for weekends...it is affecting my life, my marriage, my soul...I am lost and suffering, and don't know what to do. Nobody can relate to what i am going thru...it's heartbraking

I hate ibs

by Ty
(ewing, new jersey)

I just found out i have ibs and its not fun at all. I'm always going to the bathroom and my stomach always hurts. I dont want to go to school because im afraid of what the other kids will say. I'm 16 years old and i wanna go back to a normal life but i cant. My stomach gets worse when i worry but for some reason i cant stop worrying. I can concentrate in school and i cant let my grades slip. I wish it was gone.

Exercise is a must !!

by Hayley
(uk)

Hello all,

My story is on here as well, and i have been suffering with ibs for many years now. ive had really bad phases and i have had good phases. Recently my ibs has been really up and down. After the christmas holidays i have noticed ive neglected my body a bit and put on a bit of weight. So my new years resolution is to eat healthier and do more exercise.
I have been doing many toning exercises to tone up my muscles, mostly my stomach, thighs and bum (thats where all my unwanted weight went to haha) and i have to say toning up exercises especially on my stomach have really helped me. i still get my ibs symptoms but so far im not in as much pain as i was!
Im going to advise this, because even though it has not cured my ibs it has cut down the amount of pain and exercise in general gives you a lift in general and helps with your mental health.

Give it a go guys trust me!

Does anyone else feel like this?

by Hayley
(Norfolk)

I have suffered with IBS the majority of my life, and i believe that i cope very well with it, i try to get on with my life and try to enjoy it to the best i can. However, i am wondering if anyone gets really difficult and moody with IBS? i get so upset that when im in lots of pain i get very moody and snappy with the people i love, not because i mean too, but because living with IBS is so frustrating....you wish everyone would understand....but they dont (and not to any fault of their own). does anyone else sometimes feel lonely because of how you feel mentally? i hate the way IBS makes me feel like. when i have to buy baggy clothes for my bloated stomach, when i cant go out with my friends, when i get moody with the people i love, and yes i have even been asked whether or not im pregnant when i have bloated! these things just make you feel awful. people think IBS is about the condition in medical terms, but affects so much more than that. i normally cope extremely well with IBS but at the minute, im just down about it.

IBS Stinks!

by christine
(ottawa)

Hi fellow IBS'ers,

Just found this blog as I was looking for a support group. I have had IBS since I was about 12 and I just turned 30. Each year it gets a bit worse even though I remember a doctor telling me years ago dont worry you'll grow out of it :) That was obvisouly a bunch of BS! My life revolves around it and it has control of me and my life and it sucks. I have tried absolutely everything for it some things help for a bit and than the flareups come back. Recently I tried the SCD diet which was super stricked but I thought I had found a cure as for 4 straight weeks I felt amazing and than I got 3 flareups back to back and was sick for almost a week and half and IM still recovering and just found out Im now anemic..GREAT!! I have 2 young kids 1-20month old crazy active boy and 1 3month old little girl. I have a nanny who lives with me and I quite honestly could not do it without her and my supportive husband. Some days are horrible and I spend hours in the bathroom so I dont even want to know what I would do without extra help...it worries me to think about it. IM suppose to go back to work in September and IM somewhat dreading it because Im so uncomfortable gettting flareups at work. My health has been at its best when I was pregnant both times but I think were done now after 2. This worries me too as Im scared that I will never feel close to normal again like I did when I was pregnant. Would love to find some support partners on the site as I often needs words of encouragment to get me through the day. Has anyone tried EQUALACTIN? I find this helps me get thru flareups pretty well.
cheers
christine

14 AND HATING LIFE

by Rimmel121
(London)

AHHHH, im 14 now nut previously for about 2 years ive had intense cramps and needed to go to the toilet numerous times and sometimes the aches are so bad but i just can't go to the toilet and i all i do is just cry and just sit and try to deal with it which is the hardest. Going to secondary school with this is so hard, i am going through GCSES right now and all the stress of it makes my aches worse, they say its stress and the ache gives me evn more stress so everything builds up and i just go into a sprial of depression. I'm missing days of school and force myself in the mornings to go to school but make sure i go to the toilet alot before i leave. i'm thin but i think ive got a high metabolism like my mum but also because im scared too eat because of the pain but the dietician i have been seeing said its better too eat something like a small youghurt.

My friends wonder what is wrong with me, why im depresses all the time but im too embrassed to tell them, i have two bestest friends and ive been so close to telling one of them but i just promised myself i wouldn't cause i'd feel wierd around her then and its just embrassing. I feel as if, because their is no cure im never going to live a normal life and if i ever have a boyfriend (in the future hahaha) that hell never understand or anyone will. How do you tell your friends, should i do u think? Anyway im just suffering with it now quite late at night and ive got school tomorrow so i think ive got a bad morning coming =( ive been to the doctors and they have precribed me with colofac MR and previously tried something else but that didn't work and now im still getting IBS, has anyone tried this medcations and have they worked. I have been going to a dietian and writing a food diary but feel as if its going no where i just have to keep hope and am learning to face the facts i can't be normal and have the best teenage years that everyone else has but gradually excepting myself. Thanks for reading i wish i had someone to talk to face to face with the same experiences as myself.

Fishing???

by Richard White
(Ottawa Ontario, Canada)

I am supposed to be off with a friend dropping a line in the Ottawa River. It would have been my first fishing trip in years, Unfortunately it has been cancelled. Whatever term comes to mind, fate, co-incidence, bad luck or stress it doesn't really matter. I am not going fishing. This morning has become more a matter of how close is the bathroom rather than are the fish biting. I am disappointed and I am certain that so is my friend Lloyd.

I found this site (IBS-Life)months ago as I was looking into RV conversions and came across RickVanMan's YouTube videos relating to his IBS and his need for an RV or I guess as he calls it 'his caravan'. A few months later, and very recently I was diagnosed with IBS. Now I want my toilet-on-wheels. I was looking forward to the fishing today but to be truthful, I was anxious about being to far from a toilet. I wish I had that RV right now. Maybe I would be out fishing with some security close to hand.

Next summer my wife Laura and I are planning on a trip to south western Ontario, a scouting trip to find ourselves a new home. When we take this trip, we will do so in a rented Class B RV. I want to enjoy that trip.

Stress-IBS and Ginger Root

by Siân
(West Country)

Stress is the primary cause of my IBS, without a doubt! It has been horrible for about two weeks now; first the dog was ill, and after -- financial worries. At the moment, although I have eaten nothing, my lower stomach is in agony. I simply don't know where to put myself.

I did discover however, that ginger-root tea does help my nausea as least as effectively as prescribed meds.

A few days ago, one of the neighbours treated their fence. I am not sure what with, but there was no getting away from the smell. I have to let the dog in and out, and so the smell gusted into the house. It made me sick to my stomach and gave me a headache. I had picked up some ginger root previously, but did not know how to prepare it, so I looked up a recipe online. I do know ginger capsules helped my nausea before, but the capsules are expensive; the root was 75 pence.

I peeled the ginger (for some reason I thought it would be hard, but it was no harder than peeling a potato) sliced the ginger into thin strips and boiled it for about 20 minutes in water. I used about two pints, but next time I will use more. After letting the liquid cool a little I simply strained it into a cup and added a little honey. It was incredibly strong! (hence needing to use more water!) but it really helped settle than *greensick* feeling and it was so easy even I could manage it.

Take care,

Siân@IBS-Life

~ Quick Hello From The IBS-Life Team & Omega 3 Fish Oils~

by Siân@Ibs-Life
(Wiltshire, UK)

Well, spring has come at last, in the Northern hemisphere, but this does not affect IBS in the least.

We would like to thank-you all for writing on the IBS diary, and sharing your experiences of IBS. Though few of them are hopeful, that is what this site is about, so that every IBS sufferer knows that there are other people in the world with this problem, and that it is not an embarrassing or shameful thing to be hidden.

I myself have unfortunately been battling some kind of virus over the last few weeks now, and have not been very active. I have been trying certain smoothies, which article will be up shortly, because they are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, and I have found that certain fruits, when blended with probiotic yoghurt (or juice if you have to avoid dairy) do not trigger an IBS attack.

I have also been reading some interesting suggestions about Omega 3 Fish Oils. People take these because they work from the inside out to ease inflammation, which is why people with joint problems often take them; apparently they really do soothe inflammation, and often my stomach, both my upper stomach and lower intestines, feel very inflamed. Even when I was 16-17 I used to moan that it felt as if I had drunk acid.
It is advised that taking 3000 milligrams per day might help the intestines. (I have tablets that are 1000 milligrams, so one of those three times per day.) and it does seem to help that dreadful irritated/acid feeling, but I am giving it a month to six weeks to see what happens. Omega 3 Fish Oils are not all that expensive, especially as large stores often produce their own brands which are considerably cheaper than famous named brands of vitamins.

This week we will be recording another podcast tackling, among other symptoms, nausea and trapped wind.

Our thoughts are with you.

Take care,

Siân

Bit bummed out!

by Mary
(Wales)

I was supposed to go camping this weekend but the stomachs not having any of it. I was starting to feel a bit more on top of things becasue although I still had symptoms, they seemed a bit more manageable so today feels like a set back. Will I ever get my normal life back?

My Induction into the IBS world

by Just Shleb
(Down Under)

It's 7.00pm on a Saturday night. I've cancelled plans for tonight to be at home. And here I am. Sitting on my bed with my laptop, hot water bottle lying snuggly around my tummy. A fresh pack of peppermint oil capsules to the right of my feet, almost nearly empty. It's dark, it's quiet and it stinks.

Though it's a chilly night I've left the fan on as I'm farting and burping every other second. And to top it all off, I'm crying. Crying because not only am I suffering from IBS, but I'm also PMS'ing. Yes it's that time of the month for me so bear with me.

I'm 19, exercise daily and eat a very healthy diet. I'm not stressed, I'm not depressed and I definitely don't eat any sort of fatty foods. I have never ever experienced anything like what I experienced today. And here's how it all went down.

I woke this morning with a gut. And not just any gut, a gut that liked to talk. Simply brushing it off as 'bad chinese from last night' I get up and do what I do every other morning. A good hour run on the treadmill and then breakfast right after. I have fruit toast and coffee, not too creative but what the hey - you have days like that sometimes.

So it's all going okay for a while until I decided to do some shopping. Bad decision on my part. My tummy seems to want to talk louder and then my butt decides it wants to reply. Obviously the result wasn't pretty. I have never run out of a sale so fast in my life. Nor have I ever been so embarrassed.

After much conviction I unfortunately give up my shopping spree and head home. But before I do I pick up some peppermint oil capsules from the chemist.

I was too gassed up to care that I was eagerly grabbing every single laxative product on the shelf. Luckily I spot the little green box with the words 'abdominal pain, bloating, discomfort, cramping, and wind,' splattered across the front.

'This it it!' I scream unaware of all the sets of eyes focusing closely on me.

Before heading to check out I ask the closest chemist worker 'What exactly is this?'.

'It's Mintec,' she replies.

'Helps with Irritable Bowel Syndrome'.

Trying to think of whether or not I had ever heard of IBS I hurry to the counter, closing my buttcheeks tightly along the way as I feel another blow coming out.

Irritated and full of gas I try not to be rude to the counter lady who seems bent on making me wait while she tells her life story. Like hello lady - I'm about to blow!

Fast forward a couple of hours - I'm alone, I smell like shit and my stomach is nearly identical to my old mans. I've never had IBS before so I'm not sure what to expect. Thank God for google though otherwise I wouldn't have learnt all that I have in a short manner of time.

All I have to say really is it sucks (and in my case, stinks like hell) but it's not as bad as it seems. I've read a few other cases which make mine seem miniscule so in a guilty sort of way I feel okay. I am in alot of pain though and I'm sure my room will never smell the same again but I know for a fact that at least It's not terminal.

Millions of people are diagnosed with cancer and other terminal illnesses and here I am crying over passing wind? No, I won't let it get me down, no matter what. I'll continue on as I always have, just with a little more gas this time ;)

I hope my story brings you a smile or small comfort - God knows we could really use it right about now.


Peace & Love to all IBS sufferers
Gas Girl xo

trapped gas

by tanya
(new brunswick)

Does anyone out there suffer from the type of trapped gas that I do?? It is so severe it keeps me up all night and ruins my days. I can't go anywhere or do anything. I try different postions to expell the gas but it only gives me some relief sometimes. I hate living like this. It is so painful feeling bloated and blocked with gas every single day.

It's about loving and looking after yourself...

by John
(UK)

How I feel now? Depressed and stressed. I've got an employer, a school, who are trying to get rid of me. I do take time off for IBS. I've had it for years- it morphs- changes it's symptoms, over time.


What helps- this is the important bit. Not working full time, getting enough rest, eating regularly, walking (the dogs), playing and hearing music and being creative, having the time to hear and see the programs I like. Not having financial worries.


Having various holistic treatments (different people like different treatments) any skilled massage (Shiatsu), healing work (Reiki)= just try and get someone who's been at it a while-more than half of thed practitioners that I've used over the years have seemed to not be effective, maybe it's a matter of experience. And meditaion, and accupunture from someone who has the same mother tongue as you, a lot goes wrong in translation.

Help!

I have had ibs for a while now and my mine issue is having very foul smelling gas. It is very embarrassing at work and I'm at the point where I dread going to work. I haven't completely cut out caffeine so I think that is my next step and alcohol too but I almost feel like I need to work from home it is that bad and so embarrassing. I go to the doctor on June 7th but I don't know what he can do to help me. I'm am drinking peppermint tea now and changing my diet but I hate giving up all the things I love. dairy, coffoe, alcohol etc. If anyone has any helpful tips I would appreciate it.

Tired of looking fo BATHROOMS

by Lorraine
(FL)

Have had IBS for years and I'm fed up with it. If i do or go anyplace I'm always looking for a bathroom. So tired of this I just want to stay home. I love to play tennis and bocce, but I have to make sure their is a bathroom nearby. Can't go for walks.no bathrooms Going for a ride or trip you have to map out rest areas Flying you hope bathrooms are not full.Love to eat but have to make sure I am not going far from a BATHROOM! Please anybody talk to me and tell me you understand . Oh yes forgot to say I am a female

help me

i need help because i find it very hard to breathe and i can't cope with normal life unless i'm working constantly while i am awake. this leaves me drained every day as i'm stressed out from 8am to midnight. i am unable to relax and at the moment it feels like i'm being stabbed continuously in the stomach. i hate this feeling. i want it to stop but it doesn't unless i drink a lot of alcohol which i don't like doing because it hurts my stomach and i feel worse afterwards. so i don't know what to do and i just want to feel calm like i used to without having to feel this stabbing pain and difficulty in breathing. i will find out a way to get rid it of it. i just don't know what that will be at the moment.

Foods To Avoid With IBS

by Zoe
(UK)

I am a woman in my early thirties and have suffered IBS for about ten years, but I did not realize for a long time that there were foods to avoid with IBS. I thought it was caused by stress and I think it is, but there are also foods that can bring on an attack.

I have always tried to eat quite healthily and my diet has included fresh fruit, vegetables and nuts. All three of these can cause an attack, especially broccoli and nuts.

I would keep unsalted nuts like Brazil and Hazel nuts in the kitchen to eat a handful each day. When I was younger, I could eat them without any problem, but when I read about IBS and went to my Doctors Surgery, the GP suggested that I keep a food diary to see if there was any relationship between my diet and the bad attacks and foods to avoid with IBS.

I found out over a period of time that some fruits would cause diarrhea, Broccoli would give me a bad stomach ache and wind, but nuts were the real trigger food. A few hours after eating them, I would be bloated, with a low stomach ache which sometimes sent me to bed. Although unsalted nuts are nutritious, eating them is not worth the pain and nausea.

It was a good idea to keep a food diary, because I would not have realized there was a connection between foods and my condition and that there were foods to avoid with IBS. I believed it was stress related and because I had eaten all those foods without a problem since a child, I did not think that they would trigger bowel spasms.
Through reading sites I have discovered that not every-one is triggered by the same foods, which is why I would recommend that every-one keep a diary of what they eat to see if something does affect them. If it does, it usually happens within a few hours.

Now, fruit, particularly berries (I drink real fruit juice or smoothies instead) Broccoli, Cauliflower, and nuts are foods to avoid with IBS for me. I can eat other vegetables like cabbage, cucumber, tomatoes, fresh spinach etc without a problem. Every-one is different, so it is well worth keeping a note of your diet..

ibs What a pain !

Hey im 23 year old female and from i can remember having symptoms since i was 7 too. Although my symptoms have peeked in my twenties i have learnt a few relaxion techniques that have helped but i know when i get the pain nomatter what i do or how many pills i take its going to be bad . I dont think people realise the pain and the physical agony you end up in ive been curled up on the floor breathing like a mad man like as if im in labour !! I learnt now to accept it know that yes it hurts yes im panicking but by tommorrow i wont be in so much pain . I have learnt to avoid coco cola cut out caffiene which has helped and know that when the pain starts to take my anti spasmodics and peppermint oit and paracetamol help . It is embarrising whn your out and this happens but i wont let it stop me live my life

Just got diagnosed :(

by Michelle
(England )

Hey everybody,
Just got diagnosed on friday past with IBS. Which was a relief for me as many of my symptoms where similar to that of ovarian cancer.
Today I feel majorly bloated although I am taking Fypogel which was prescriped to me by my GP. I feel really run down and sluggish which I think definatly has something to do with the bread I ate yesterday.
I was wondering also if anyone had experienced any weight changes when they are bloated because my weight fluntuates between a few pounds everytime I weigh myself which can sometimes be more than twice a day.

IBS My whole Life My Story

by Tom
(UK)

I am a 40 year old male and have had issues all my life, well actually my earliest recollection is about age 7.

I came across this site whilst googling my latest health issue anxiety.
I have just read a book by Paul David 'At last a life' that was very good and I am putting the lessons into practice.
It tells you not to avoid things and let the excess adrenaline come and ignore it.By avoiding you get in a visious cycle and never get better.
Anyway whilst thinking about this and my IBS I wondered how anxiety and IBS are linked.

I normally plan my journeys around toilets and take immodium if I am out of my comfort zone. i.e strange places I have never been or long car journeys or on a plane .
The IBS has stopped me going out for meals and avoiding social situations. I have now learnt that I need to force myself to do these things as the excess adrenaline my body produces causes my IBS to be worse.

Now I can see other people have the same issues it does make me feel better.
My IBS is generally when I wake up i feel my stomach turning I know its a bad day.If I dont feel my stomach turning I still go to the toilet up to 3 times before I leave the house every day and still feel like I need to go.
I always have this horrible thought in my head 'What If I need to go'
I have never had an accident but come really close on about a dozen occasions which in 40 years is not bad I suppose.
I just get anxious about any journey even to the park with my kids so it is not just eating out its every journey.
I am going to keep positive and keep taking the immodium (it helps me and gives some security) and just stop putting pressure on myself trying to get better.

I have IBS it is not an infectious disease I just need to live my life as best I can and take whatever measures are required to do it. Thinking about anything all the time makes your brain tired and your nerves on edge.

Sorry for the long post I just felt like getting it off my chest.

Tom

It's definitely anxiety.

by Siân@Ibs-Life
(Wiltshire, UK)

I actually had a few days of my stomach feeling placid. I don't know whether this is because I was eating frugally (corn flakes and dried Goji berries mainly.) or the fact that the sun came out and it was warm, which cheered me up, but for a few days my stomach was, on a 1 - 10 about 5, which was amazing.

And then, on Monday night, I read something which upset me -- you know the kind of upset where you flush hot as fire, and your stomach clenches up and churns, and your blood-pressure suddenly shoots up? Like that.
Within an hour I felt incredibly nauseous, then my stomach started to cramp. I was woken up by cramps in the morning, and the rest of the day I felt sick and in pain, as I do this morning, when I had to urgently go to the bathroom as soon as I got up.

It's never been clearer to me, that anxiety and stress really trigger my IBS. I do not know how long this spasm will last, but even now, those few days of respite seem like a dream. :(

IBS Flare up

by Rae
(United Kingdom)

My IBS has suddenly got worse (cramps, diarrhoea, bloating) during and after my latest period which I had last week. As I only started having IBS earlier this year (after being sterilized), I am still getting used to it and initially thought I was still experiencing PMS symptoms even though my period has stopped.
It feels absolutely awful! I have just ordered some Peppermint Oil Capsules after reading several comments on this website by fellow sufferers saying that they are very good at helping you manage your IBS symptoms. I will keep my fingers crossed hoping that they help me and will keep you all informed as to whether they do or not.

Nausea / trapped wind / sick & tired

by Danielle
(Liverpool)

Ive been suffering with bad trapped wind / constipation for the past few days now.... sickly full bloated feeling and just no appetite / watery mouth and just can't cope this way i feel like my insides are shaking 24/7 i don't no where to turn anymore i have only known i have IBS a few weeks now about 2 and its really getting me down i keep thinking its something more worse as am walking round with a nervous belly feeling like i have the runs only i don't go the toilet why am i so so scared of this IBS why me ?? the nausea is the worse part i dont like it as am emetophobic but i no that its all down to bein so constipated am having all the pressure in my lower back and underneath :(

They have to find something!

by Zsuzsanna
(Dublin, Ireland)

I have been diagnosed with IBS about 5 years ago. Just can't accept it. There has to be a "real" cause for my suffering. Sometimes I feel I can't eat anything. It's particularly bad at work. I don't even mind the frequent toilet breaks, but I hate feeling nauseous. It's terrible. I can't think. I'm fatigued all day every day. Recently had some blood tests done. Everything normal, apart from excessive iron in the liver (I'm 30). No allergies. Still waiting for the celiac test. My GP said "nobody knows the answer to IBS", but I want an answer!

Lost but what else is new!

by Jacqueline

I got IBS when I was 13 now that I am 22 I am still struggling with Eating. No matter what i eat I'm always in pain. I have severe anxiety because even when I'm not sick I'm so nervous to leave my home that I end up running to the bathroom before I can even get to the door. I been on so many medications nothing works.

will going vegetarian help?

by stephanie
(florida)

I have been thinking about going vegetarian for a while and I was wondering if it would have a positive or negative effect on my ibs...the reason I want to be vegetarian is because I love animals and I watched the peta video :( so yea I figured anyone who is a vegetarian could maybe help me know whether or not it will help my ibs or make it worse cuz if it will make it worse then I will just stick with meat...LOL

So over this!!!

by Moon
(Sacramento, Ca, Usa)

Hello all,
I am so over this. I hate how much gass I have it's so gross. I have ana amzing group of people who support me with my IBS and I am even lucky enough to work at whole foods market, but I just feel so gross and lame that I go to the bathroom 6-8 times a day, or on a bad day nothing at all. That leads to a world of pain. My god I miss chesses!

I am kind of at a loss...... I have changed my diet and work out and do yoga (omg that helps), but does the gass ever get better? Do the bathroom trip ever lessen?

daily struggle....

by pdee
(South Africa)

i wish i can remember how it felt those times when i had no IBS, to me that is just a memory now a memory i struggle to retain a memory i feel as time goes i will forget.... life with IBS is a daily struggle a struggle that does not promise an end, i feel trapped and frustrated because it affects every part of my life sometimes i feel like it is better to die than to live with this condition. I do not know for how much longer i can live with this condition i do not want to die but i cannot imagine anything worse than this that has happened or that can happen in this life time....if this condition persists then the end of the road for me is near that is of cause if the anxiety and depression does not kill me first...

I hate IBS

Well, where to start! I've lived with IBS for almost 20 years, the debilitating kind where I do find it a challenge almost every single day. As a bonus, I'm sure anxiety with the "what-ifs" brings it on even worse. Just the thought of travel brings it on.

This IBS has truly affected my life in EVERY way. I am not the same person I used to be. No longer confident, outgoing and spur of the moment kind of girl. I cringe at the idea of travelling anywhere outside of my hometown.
I'm doing the IBS Hypnotherapy by Michael Mahoney, again, 4th time.... still hoping it will bring change to my life, like it has for so many others. I am not taking anything for meds, (except Imodium for when I have to travel).

I'm hating my life right now, particularly the restrictions this IBS is playing on my life. I know I should feel fortunate that its just IBS and not something more serious, but sometimes its hard to feel that way when you feel like life is taking place and you are unable to participate in the manner you'd like to.