I am an older gay man and I have a diagnosis of IBS. Am I alone ?

[rubberpants3]

This is a sensitive issue for me.

As a gay man, I am increasingly returning to the closet, reluctantly.

This is because of years of IBS which has worsened in recent years.

I do now have a diagnosis of IBSd, and my GP prescribes Loperamide for me, and Mebeverine.

It is a potentially very embarrassing condition, and also a very isolating condition.

I tend to stay home more than I would wish to.

Am I alone ?

[xsevenx]

Sorry to learn of your situation. I hope you can get effective treatment soon.

[rubberpants3 in reply to xsevenx]

Thank you for ryour response,

[Omniscient1]

I don't think you're alone at all. There was a series on channel 4 about 2 years ago with many people ( young and old, men and women) with unresolved gut issues which were causing them physical and social pain. Google 'thegutstuff', it's probably on 4oD still if you didn't see it. Many solutions were discussed, but for sure you aren't alone. I presume you have been referred to a specialist ?

[rubberpants3 in reply to Omniscient1]

Good morning,

And thank you for your very supportive and very encouraging response to my post - thank you.

I had not known of that Chanel 4 programme - I will seek it out.

I was finally diagnosed by a gastroenterologist after blood test, stool test, two colonoscopies, and I’m not sure what else.

I;m pleased to have received your message.

Rubberpants

[Omniscient1]

I just checked, it was called Know Your S**t, and it's still up on their catch up service. 6 episodes, it's a bit pink and fluffy, but the problems the sufferers had are serious and the solutions sincere, as you will appreciate.

[rubberpants3 in reply to Omniscient1]

Thank you - that is much appreciated.

Rubberpants

[rubberpants3 in reply to Omniscient1]

Thank you, I have found the series, and I'll get chance to watch it over the coming days.

Best regards

rubberpants

[toofreakedout]

you are not alone this condition affects millions of people. it is not so much linked to your sexuality, but there can be links to past trauma. think about doing the A.C.E. quiz. troubles in a life time can add risk factors for all kinds of issues, including irritable bowel, high blood pressure, heart disease, all the big ones. I hope you feel better soon

[rubberpants3 in reply to toofreakedout]

Good morning, too freakedout, and thank you.

I much appreciate your kind words.

I;ll google the A.C.E. Quiz.

Rubberpants

[rubberpants3 in reply to toofreakedout]

Hello toofreakedout, and good afternoon,

I have found the A.C.E. quiz; I answered the questions; and I came out with a low score of 2.

It was interesting to follow it through, but it did not help me.

Thank you anyway,

Best regards

rubberpants

[Hidden]

Sorry to hear this. I'm sure you're not alone and hope you can find the help you need. Stay positive and this will be behind you soon enough.

[rubberpants3 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, Healthyguy1.

I have replied to you in the private chat.

best regards

rubberpants

[Parrsboro]

Your situation is a very hard one. I have had IBS for 49 years. It is a rough ride for sure. I take viberzi, and it makes a world of difference. There are food triggers which are highly individual. I also make a heaping tablespoon of metamucil in water each day.