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IBS Symptoms and management...

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eleanor43290
eleanor43290

Hi, I've recently been diagnosed with IBS after returning to University for my second year. I have had had issues with my stomach all my life - generally when I was on my period - but after returning to University I felt incapable of even walking to the toilet let alone paying attention in lectures - I put this down to stress but now I am getting it regularly and I would say that my stress levels have been fairly low recently.

My symptoms vary, unfortunately, and during that week at Uni it involved: lethargy, vomiting, nausea, constipation, bloating and flatulence. But recently, after being diagnosed and under-taking several blood tests and being  prescribed Mebeverine (which my GP has since changed to Alverine to see if it works any better), my symptoms have changed. A few weeks ago I vomited and had severe diarhea (excuse the spelling) twice in two weeks and then this week - typically during Christmas - I have had severe constipation and have been having 'wet farts' where I have an urgent need to go to the toilet but all I have passed is mucus (which I have never had before) and farted. I'm concerned about the constipation as normally when I have been constipated but I've continued eating since I have a diet regime as prescribed by the doctor, it has resulted in diarhea and vomiting in some cases. I'm going to try some natural remedies but I just want to see if anyone else is experiencing this kind of fluctuation of symptoms and what they thought of the other drugs as I though the mebeverine was helping - although it was a bother to take as I had to have 20 minutes before a meal which I found difficult because I only eat when I am hungry - I can't eat when I'm not as this causes bloating and nausea - but I haven't seen much change in the Alverine besides these changes in symptoms...I'm a little confused.

Just as an added info: when I had my blood tests done I was found to have a raised liver-function - bilirubin - and I am borderline aneamic. My sister has recently had trouble with her stomach too and has a raised ALT liver enzyme. I don't know if this matters but it is strange that it has flared up at the same time as my illness too.

Please help and let me know if this is normal or if I should return to my doctor and press them for my help.

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • bobcrachet
    bobcrachet eleanor43290

    Posted

    Dear eleanor,

    I think you should see your GP again as he/she will know what your medical history is and what prescribed drugs you are taking.

    I can tell you that I have been diagnosed with IBS and type 2 diabetes. Like you have said, stress does seem to make things worse for us and I find that this condition affects my sleep which is why am writing this at 3.28 am in the morning.

    I found that changing my diet sorted out the diarrhoea and constipation for me. I eliminated wheat, rye, dairy products, citrus fruits, coffee, fats and oils, alcohol, fizzy drinks, and anything acidic or spicy. You might like to read up about the low FODMAP diet as this helped me to.

    I found it was also important to

    1) Eat regular meals

    2) Take my time when eating

    3) Do not skip meals

    4) Do not eat late at night

    5) Take plenty of exercise ( I walk the cocker spaniel 3 times a day )

    The medicine that works for me is Buscopan. I have also tried mebeverine and Colpermin which is peppermint oil.

    I also take probiotics in the form of natural yogurt but you must read the label on it, some look OK but do not contain the live ingredient.

    No one seems to know what has happened to us. They put it down to

    a) An increae in gut sensitivity

    d) Inflammation of the digestive tract lining

    c) Disturbance of movements in the bowels

    It must be dreadful for you at your age, having to deal with your studies and a social life. I remember what it was like when I was your age. I had to retire at 50 and I moved to north wales so I could live a laid back sort of life.

    If you do decide to try anything that works for me please be careful. It might be worth checking with your GP first. I would hate to make your condition worse.

    Please take care and I hope you feel better soon.

    Wishing you a very Happy Christmas

    robert

  • janet74211
    janet74211 eleanor43290

    Posted

    I totAlly agree with Robert, especially regards the fodmap diet. But read up on it carefully. I consulted with the doctor first and a donation as wanted to make sure had the right balance. Good luck, have a merry Christmas.
  • bobcrachet
    bobcrachet eleanor43290

    Posted

    Dear eleanor,

    Janet is absolutely correct, you must read up on the low FODMAP diet first and you might speak to your GP as well. Remember, what works for me may not work for you so please be careful. Drastic changes to your diet are never a good idea. Try eliminating wheat and dairy first.

    I wish you well, let us know how you get on.

    Best wishes

    robert

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