I've had IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) for many years. I remember my first attack around age 8 or 9 (I know what my age was, because my father was still alive), and at least monthly attacks since (during my teens and 20s, more like weekly). For something that poses no real health risks, it is horribly painful. These are the treatments I've tried so far, and I am hoping someone here has other suggestions. (Just had a fairly intense attack Sunday--I'm usually weak and sore for a day or two following.)
**More fiber--I get plenty of dietary fiber and the powder made my stomach hurt.
**Deitary links--I have been unable to find a direct connection with any food or drink. Sometimes fried foods seem to trigger an attack (like french fries), but then other times they don't. The attacks seem to be less frequent since I gave up eating meat in my mid-thirties.
**Belladonna (Rx)--sometimes effective of taken early in an attack, sometimes not.
**Pepto Bismal--not for the usual reasons, but the ingredients seem to lessen the spasms.
**Digestive Advantage (OTC)--I took it for two weeks faithfully and had the attack Sunday.
**Heating pad--This is always effective to lessen the pain while the attack is in progress, and eases the soreness afterwards. Not usually practical to take to work; although I have at times. I always pack it on any vacation.
**Stress--There does seem to be somewhat of a link here.
Thank you for any suggestions! The medical community doesn't take this condition very seriously despite how painful and incapacitating it can be.
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