IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Lexapro and booze

[DipGal]

Today I am writing out of deep concern for my husband. He has been a functional alcoholic for many years, as have I. Over the last year he has developed major digestive issues finally diagnosed as IBS.. very painful and life altering. Many different meds have been tried, but all didn't work or had side effects. Maybe they didn't work well or had side effects because he always drank with them even though he wasn't supposed to. I am not sure.

His gastro dr decided his IBS was anxiety driven, so prescribed Lexapro. It has helped many with IBS. Anti-depressants and alcohol do not mix, but DH has been drinking anyway. The alcohol is probably interfering with the Lexapro so that it isn't working as it should. And it certainly has made DH totally dysfunctional. As a matter of fact he is now drinking all day to help the pain. He rarely leaves the house. As of today, he hasn't showered in over a week. I finally seeked professional counseling yesterday and know I need to do tough love.

DH is agreeing to quit drinking to try to improve his life. So I guess I am looking for those who are on antidepressants and have quit alcohol or are trying to. Also, IBS, does anyone have experience with this painful condition?

I am thinking of investing in the products shown on MY Way Out. Anyone have an opinion on that or other ways to quit with the least agony!

Thanks a million to all of you and I wish you good health!

[techie]

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Lexapro and booze

Hi DipGal I have been on Lexapro for several years. When I drank it negated the effect of the med. It wasn't until I stopped drinking that the medication finally kicked in and is helping me immensely. I have little experience with IBS, but I do know that drinking only exacerbates the condition. I wish you and your husband all the best!

[Rusty]

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Lexapro and booze

Dipgal,

I responded to your post in the Need Help ASAP Forum, I believe. if you click on my name, you will see my post.

Let me know if I can help any more...

[Pride before Fall]

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Lexapro and booze

Here's an NIH link on IBS, Dip. It does say alcohol makes it worse. It can't be helping him then, to be using alcohol to decrease IBS pain when it's known to increase it.

He sounds seriously depressed, from your description. Has he told his GE know how much he is drinking? If not, he won't be getting the help he needs; the pressure's just staying on you, and it sounds like you need some outside support. I would try and get him to give the full picture to his doctor, and possibly get a referral to an addiction specialist or counseling in addition to the Lexapro.

Doesn't sound fun! Hang in there.

Pride

What I need to know about Irritable Bowel Syndrome

[Ringing Cedars]

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Lexapro and booze

Hello DipGal. I know nothing about the med's but can tell you how he can get some relief from his stomach inflammation. Slippery Elm powder(in podwer form is best-not caps), Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice, good quality ProBiotic and LGlutamine (powder is best). Take these in high doses at least 3 times per day. Maybe up to 6 times per day for the slippery elm and aloe in the beginning.

Cutting back on the alcohol is obvious but he should also reduce or eliminate the most common high mold and allergy foods:
all wheat products(breads, cookies, pastas, bagels, muffins), dairy(cheese too), peanuts, mushrooms, yeast, sugar, caffeine, trans-fats, bananas(all fruit for awhile). They are very mucous forming and cause acidity and inflammation. Do this for a minimum of 3-6 weeks. All the best )