My IBS Story

By bat777

1 min read

Hi All,

My symptoms began 15 years ago. At first I thought is was just something I ate, but it got worse. I had the dreaded test with barium that came back all was negative. Through out the years I have tried so many alternatives, quit eating gluten and some help for awhile but then I start getting bloated, and tired and just feel like I have to go and even if I do I still feel like crap.

I have had ultra sounds and colonoscopies. About 2 months ago I ended up in urgent care and they again did tests that showed nothing. Was given an IV and after that did feel better for a few months. Have any of you been able to find anything that helps?

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tmholland Contributor
Hi <inline-mention user-id="2277908" username="bat777"/> , I am sorry for your struggles and unfortunately your story is all too familiar. The fatigue, bloating, colonoscopies and flare ups seem to be the norm. I have only found through a lot of trial and error with a holistic approach to IBS that I have found relief. Diet, exercise, therapy, medications, trying different doctors... Everyone needs to find their own path to wellness. Obviously, the first stop should be to the doctor's office, but after that research the best things to try and use that as a baseline (plenty of information here on the site). From there make adjustments that are best for you. It may take some time but I believe you will find a way to find some longer term relief. We are here for your support. -Todd, <a href='https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net' target='_blank'>IrritableBowelSyndrome.net</a> Team
1. bat777 Member
 Todd-Yea this is no fun at all.
jo5781 Member
Gluten free has helped somewhat, accupuncture believe it or not but it gets expensive and hypnotherapy and meditation as well. During times of extreme stress I have Been perscribed a low dose benzodiazepine. If there is a magic bullet I have not found it . This disease has its ups and downs..sorry if some one has a “cure” please share.
corgimom Member
I take a daily dose of a very old antidepressant called Desipramine. A study was done years ago that said it helped IBS sufferers. At the time I was critically ill with IBS, and it gave my life back to me. It can be hard to find, a pharmacy may have to order it. It didn't eliminate the IBS, but it made my IBS go from a 10 to a 3 or 4.
dolllady Member
I'm amazed that so many people will not use Immodium for their IBS. I've been on it for 20 years & it has pretty much given me my life back. not a cure for sure & you have to learn to regulate it to suit your needs, which change from time to time, but overall I could'nt live without it. Along with that of course, is diet management, you have to work that out on your own too to suit your needs. it's all trial & error & very frustrating but if we're stuck with this ailment we have to go to great lengths to control it & not have it control us. I've been encouraged from the start to take anti-depressants for the symptoms but refuse to get on that wagon so I just stick with Immodium. Hope this helps someone.
1. Chris H. Community Admin
 Thanks for sharing your thoughts, <inline-mention user-id="2332379" username="dolllady"/> . Glad to hear that you're finding relief with Immodium and diet management. We've heard from a lot of folks here that use similar methods to help control symptoms, however, what works for one may not work for others. Appreciate you being part of the community! - Chris, <a href='https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net' target='_blank'>IrritableBowelSyndrome.net</a> Team
Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
For me stress management and diet change were the game changers. I try my best to stay away from dairy, grains and processed sugars. I also find that when I get into a low-impact exercise regimen, I feel my best. Yoga is a great tool for me. I hope you find relief soon. IBS is not easy but you have this community to lean on, always. Rooting for you. Elizabeth (team member)