Hi all - I am new to this site and have had IBS C for over 10 years now. My colonoscopy described my large intestines as "tortuous" and that is exactly the way I have felt - "totured". I am 50 and am in good shape and height/weight proportioned. I really don't know what to say from here except that I have tried EVERYTHING and I mean everything without relief. I am considering surgery to have a complete colectomy. I have lived in severe pain with extreme bloating to the point of looking pregnant most of the time, with gas, cramps (I have burn marks on my abdomen from constant use of a heating pad), etc. I am not sure how much longer I can take it. I do not want a colostomy, but that beats the alternate which is "checking out". Yes - I have thought of suicide and I have been in counseling and on meds - so been there and done that route. I cannot date, I have no social life, and I work bent over my desk in agony all day. When not at work I am at home in bed. I don't know what to take or even what to eat anymore as I have attempted everything available in different combinations and NOTHING has worked. The docs say I am a chronic severe case. I am taking Amitiza 24 mcgs 2 x a day and sometimes as many as 25-50 Senekot laxatives a day. I have treid to cut back but am now laxative dependent. Has anyone else out there resorted to surgery and if so - did it relieve your symptoms ? They are wanting to leave the small intestines - but can IBS affect them too ? I appreciate any advise you have to offer. Thank you all and God bless.