Stomach Problems

[xxbluexx]

Hello! New here, and going to hit you up with a major problem of mine that I don't see much about in support groups.

I'm having a stomach problem that's related to my anxiety and depression. Anytime I go out in public I'm terrified, and as a result I'll be running for a restroom. I've had to resort to starving myself the day before going out, and taking Imodium and wearing paper pants as a safeguard. I have actually soiled myself while I've been out, and it's demoralizing! I'm only in my 50's, and have regular colonoscopies and the findings are always normal. I've tried addressing the issue through diet and meditation, but have not had any luck in getting it under control. I can no longer work and have no social life. Fortunately, my husband is able to support us, otherwise I'd really be in trouble! Has anyone else had any experience with this?

[chloe40]

Hello there xxbluexx and welcome to our friendly forum here on Action on Depression. We're very pleased you've found us and I'm sure you'll fine the support you need here. Please do read our Forum Guidelines and pop back to check for replies.

Best wishes

Chloe

[xxbluexx in reply to chloe40]

Thanks so much, Chloe! 😀

[sweetiepye]

First thing I used to do was locate the rest rooms when ever I went anywhere. I've never had an accident but it was close and I had a pressing need. My Dr. suggested I use Metamucil which helped and I eat very little processed food. Sometimes various medications will be the culprit so you might want to check that out. What does your Dr. recommend ? Maybe you need a specialist . Your Dr. could recommend one. Good luck and let me know how it goes. It just occurred to me that you may have to cure the anxiety first. Another question for your Dr. Pam

[xxbluexx in reply to sweetiepye]

Hi Pam! Thanks so much for your kind reply. I've been struggling with this issue for 25 years now, and it's become progressively worse over time. I have seen a specialist and was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but his recommendations were not helpful. The symptoms are mostly linked to my anxiety, and it doesn't seem to matter what I eat or don't eat...the problem still persists. Metamucil type products have not been beneficial either. I've had a problem with anxiety since my childhood, and have tried many solutions to banish it without success. Oh, and you're not kidding about medications, and even vitamins/supplements for that matter. There are very few that I can tolerate. It's just a very horrible and ongoing problem for me that I just can't seem to remedy. It's pretty much ruined my life. There don't appear to be any simple solutions, but it does help to talk about it sometimes.

[xxbluexx]

Thanks so much, Chloe! 😀

[Hidden]

Hi this sounds awful -poor you. If it is anxiety related are you on any meds for it? Have you or are you having any counselling? Maybe this would help. I certainly hope so. x

[xxbluexx in reply to Hidden]

Hi Coughalot2! Thanks, no I'm not on any anxiety meds. I think I've tried most of them, but they either don't work or else they don't agree with me. I do find that if it ramps up a little too much, I can get a bit of relief from CBD Oil. I've been using that for a couple of months without any problems. I can't afford to take it on a daily basis, but I have it on hand for those really tough times. I have had counseling in the past several times, but none that has helped with the situation. Also, the CBD Oil is ok for an anxiety attack, but doesn't help me when I go out. It's nothing I'd want to take before driving that's for sure.

[WhiteAlice]

Not that bad, but I have IBS. Sounds like you have severe Crohns or something similar. Talk to your GP about some of the new treatments available. If he's not listening, can you get another GP? Digestive reactions to stress & anxiety can be very debilitating. As a kid I had to take Librax because of it. There are many more treatments available now. Good luck!

[xxbluexx in reply to WhiteAlice]

Thank you, WhiteAlice. I'll look into that!

[Gambit62]

this is a link to the symptoms of B12 deficiency

pernicious-anaemia-society....

- if they ring a lot of bells then I would suggest that you join the PAS forum on health unlocked. Most common cause is absorption problems rather than lack of B12 in diet but getting the condition recognised and treated can be very difficult.

healthunlocked.com/pasoc

[xxbluexx in reply to Gambit62]

Wow Gambit62...this certainly sounds like me! I'm definitely going to look into this further! Thank you!