IBS - Bloating and Cramps
Posted , 5 users are following.
Firstly I'd just like to say Hello to everyone, I joined the site today hoping to pick your brains for any wealthy knowledge.
I've been suffering with different forms of Anxiety on and off for my whole life, I'm now 21. In the last 8 months it's been the turn of IBS caused by Anxiety, something I've never experienced before. I can't leave my house without the urge needing the loo, I get cramps, can't drink any alcohol etc.
For the last month I've been getting VERY Bloated, almost like I'm a pregnant man, lots of burping, and sometimes feeling sick. These mixed with some mild low abdomen cramps isn't the most pleasant situation to be in. I shall be speaking with my Doctor again next week, but I'm curious to know if anyone else here suffers with the same issue?
Thank you,
Jay!
0 likes, 5 replies
neilb25N
Posted
I have suffered from IBS for many years on and off and it started when I was a student 20 years ago due to stress. Worrying about the symptoms and whether or not to go out, or whether you'll be near a loo, etc, all of that adds to the anxiety and then the symptoms so you mustn't get stuck in that sort of cycle. It is hard but try not to let the condition add to your stress or to cause it in future.
The best solutions that I have found are dietary - most of the typical medications don't work and can be pretty hard on the stomach as well. Try to avoid too much wheat or gluten (eg bread/pasta) - there are gluten free versions available, and try not to eat too much sugary or fatty food as I always think that makes my insides ferment and get more gassy and lead to more mucusy diarrohea.. If you cut down on these refined carbs and sugars then you may start to feel better. Drink lots of water and use soya milk.
I have recently started a 6 week diet to help with liver and glucose problems and I never thought I would cope without any bread, potato, pasta, rice, sugar, dairy but I have and my stomach has been so much better without them. It's only a temporary fix but it proves that those foods were making me ill as I was eating too much. You can still eat lots of meat and fish, fruit and veg and unsalted nuts and seeds and stay full. Eating a little and often can help and will reduce the bloating. I used to have agonising wind and cramps so I know it can be very distressing.
As for the stress, try to identify what caused it in the first place and deal with that. Talking or counselling can help, or if it's a temporary thing due to a relationship or work or studies, then it will pass. Don't let the doctors define you by your stress and don't let the symptoms take over.
Best of luck,
Neil
garry13
Posted
Jay I suffer from severe bloating within 5mins of eating it gets so bad I can't hardly breath
I am burping for hours I've tried every tablet as I've had ibs for 30years nothing works
The doctors don't care because they Havant a clue to be honest I can live with the toilet
Issues but not the bloating can anyone please help
Garry
Ksheridan
Posted
I've been suffering with IBS for the past two years, at first it wasnt too bad but this past year it started to spiral out of control. I've started a blog at www.mylifewithibs.com to document my experiences. I've tried nearly every medication and had pretty much every test going, to confirm it was IBS.
I'm now on Dicycloverine Hydrochloride for the pain which seems to be workign fairly well, but I've still had to rely on Immodium almost daily for the past 6 months, and am yet to find a suitable alternative, but it gets me out of the house which is the main thing.
I've identified some foods which are a complete no-no but even when I remove these, I still have lots of issues. I've now discovered the FODMAP diet, which I started a few days ago and am hoping this brings me some relief!
I'm also going travelling as of next week with my partner as I'm determined not to let this condition take over everything. I dont think its going to be a smooth ride though!
Stress/ anxiety can worsen IBS symptoms, but these should reduce over time.
In terms of bloating I suffer with this and again I'm struggling to find a way to reduce it. I would start by writing a food diary and write down everything you eat and drink as well as how you feel that day or after each meal, ie cramping, bloating etc. I would also do some research on common foods which are an issue in IBS and reduce these. The FODMAP diet has produced some good results for people with IBS, so its worth consideration.
Best wishes
champers
Posted
cub22 EnglishLad
Posted
Cub