The life of a court reporter ... With IBS

by JaimieTheSufferingCourtReporter
(CT)

So I'm currently sitting here dreading work tomorrow because i have just had an unfortunate episode of stomach spasms and diarrhea. Although, I'm not sure if I should be relieved because this could quite possibly mean I will be free of an episode tomorrow at work.

Yes, you read the title right. I am a court reporter. Yes, I record everything said in court and if you are a sufferer of IBS you will probably be cringing when I tell you I have to sit in court all day except for 2 15 minute recesses and an hour for lunch.

Honestly, this was not my chosen career path considering my history of stomach problems in my 23 years of life, but as a broke recent college graduate, I decided to bite the bullet and give it a shot. Let's just say I've been at his job almost a year now and it hasn't been the most wonderful experience due to my IBS. Having to interrupt a court session and say, "Excuse me Your Honor, I need to use the bathroom" is not exactly the dream job I had in mind.

My history of IBS has included both diarrhea and constipation with the accessory of excruciating stomach pains. I'm in the process of trying to cut out caffeine (down to one cup of coffee a day and no soda) and greasy foods. Any advice for day to day or emergency remedies would be greatly appreciated!