[Guest]

I'm 26 years old and have been suffering from IBS regularly for about 10 years. Even as a child though, every anxiety went right to my belly. I am so thankful to have found this discussion group because for a long time I have felt very alone in my suffering. My husband is very supportive and wishes that he could help me but is as confused as I am about what happens to my body. I, like others have mentioned, don't want to leave the house any more and feel very depressed. I am so tired of feeling sick. If it's not D it's C or nausia. It's always something and people are really starting to notice. Add to these problems the regular colds everyone gets and I look like a hypochondriac. I used to be critical of people who were always complaining about some physical problem and now it's me! I know this is long but I just want to express how happy I am that I have a place to go where people really understand! I am trying to have a child and I wonder how one can function as a good mother with IBS. I am afraid of the attacks and having someone to take care of during them. Any thoughts?

 

[Guest]

Hi, Cindy2. I am new to this group, also. Have been an IBS sufferer for 20+ years, but only knew it had a name about 5 yrs ago. Best wishes to you in trying to have a child. I can tell you that during the time I was pregnant, and really watching what I ate for the sake of my child, that I had the least problems with IBS. I also understand how you feel about "people beginning to notice". This is the toughest thing for me to overcome and to develop a "don't care" attitude when it comes to what other people think about my condition. Best wishes to you.

 

[Guest]

The toughest thing for me is keeping away from my trigger foods. Have you figured out what yours are? I mean, I love hot, spicey food, but I have to be prepared for the consequences the next morning! Also, add to this any kind of stress and the same thing happens. My gut reacts to everything. I could almost just sit here and make it hurt just thinking about it! I believe its a combination of trying to reduce stress and keeping away from the foods that bother you. Keep a diary of what you eat and how you feel after. It may take time, but you'll figure out eventually what they are. And RELAX! Don't worry about other people and what they think. This probably just adds to your problem. Hope this helps..I've had this for about 10 years now, and it come and goes.

 

[Guest]

Hi,I have had IBS for about 10 yrs also, only diagnosed 2 yrs ago. It is a very debilatating disease and takes away from a leading a normal active life. My boyfriend also supports me but, is difficult for people to understand, I am constantaly researching as much info. as I can. I recently came across this group a few days ago, I think it is great.As said earlier, it is a good idea to keep a daily log of what you eat so that you can keep track of the "trigger foods", for me it is onions (the absolute worst!), wine, and pasta with cream sauces. You'll find a lot of things you enjoy you will have to stay away from!!Well I wish you great luck and try to keep an upper chin about it, get a good G.P. and perhaps a nutritionist. Most important of all from what my experience is, cut out altogether caffeine, alcohol, stress and smoking! Take care.------------------Janet CorriganCoping in Canada