Do I Have IBS?

Posted , 7 users are following.

Hi. I am currently an 19 year old college student. For the past month or two, I have been dealing with on and off constipation, but I never really thought much of it because I was still having BM and the stool appeared normal. The past 2 weeks has been different. I can only seem to have a BM after exercising and drinking lots of water. The stool seems to be soft, and disintegrates upon flushing. On days where I don't exercise, I don't have a BM or its very small, thin stools. This had caused me to worry, and I'm wondering if that has something to do with the reduced amount of BM. I also have been eating lots of fiber and avoiding foods that often cause constipation, but it is not seeming to help. Does this sound like normal symptoms of IBS?

0 likes, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • Posted

    Have you got a doctor at uni Nick. You sound very much like you're describing IBS to a t, ask for an appointment, IBS can be brought on by excess stress. Good luck.

  • Posted

    Do you have generalised stomach pain that moves about?
    • Posted

      Yes sometimes. Usually occurs at night before heading to sleep. Aches usually on left side, sometimes right
  • Posted

    I have IBS and get the usual cramps etc from certain foods. I find constipation comes on by over eating, so for instance i might have a big meal and a couple of snacks etc which seems to overload my system. I found eating smaller main meals, drinking water and exercise helps to get metabolism going. 

    Worth seeing the dr though to confirm.

  • Posted

    Hi Nick, it’s possible it’s IBS but you need a doctor’s diagnosis. Are you on any type of medication? For example, anything with codeine in it? Or does it occur on days you’ve had alcohol? If so, it could be either of those, alcohol causes dehydration and codeine can cause constipation (it can actually be found in diahhorea treatments). I always think any changes in BM’s should be discussed with a doctor - at your age, it’s not likely to be anything sinister though, but I would suggest seeing a doctor for sure.
  • Posted

    You really need to see a doctor to confirm this. Does not sound like IBS to me but I could be wrong.

    Take care and keep in touch

    Sarah

  • Posted

    Some symptoms of IBS are like that and at times high fiber can make it worse. Are you stressing a lot in college? They say stress is the worst for IBS. Yams helped me out with fiber. I tried the FOMAD diet which helps also. Be sure to talk with your doctor or dietitian 

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