Hi - have just joined. Looking at symptons leads me to believe I MIGHT have IBS.

[hunksgirl]

I am not sure if it is the right thing to do to go into detail what happens, but am looking through other peoples questions to see if similar to mine.

[trishyb59]

hi. ibs is just a name used when all test prove negative. don't just accept that its ibs unless you have been tested for other conditions. as it could be something else . ive had ibs for 20+ yrs and only recently been diagnosed with bile acid malabsorption. Trisha [ Ireland ]

[hunksgirl in reply to trishyb59]

Thank you trishby59. Havent been tested for anything yet, going to see my doctor on the 14th. Had a few mucus symptons for ages, but have done bowel cancer tests (the ones that come through the post from the National Health) and both times were clear. But now the mucus is becoming involuntary and I need to get it sorted. (England)

[trishyb59 in reply to hunksgirl]

hi, when you visit doc ask them about a SEHCAT Scan for B A M [ bile acid malabsorption ] its treated with cholestyramine . i started on this 3 months ago and have improved by 50% .. not many GPs now about this condition so you have to mention it to them. hope this helps.

[hunksgirl in reply to trishyb59]

Hi Trishyb59 - thank you once again. I will remember that, I am making a note of everything I need to tell doc so will add this to it. Glad you have improved.

Once again many thanks and will let you know how it goes.

[Hidden in reply to trishyb59]

Hi trishyb59, I've never heard of that condition so will look it up on the internet. Doctors seem to find it so difficult to treat some symptons and IBS seems to be the end diagnosis for alot of conditions.

Best of luck to you

[Hidden]

Hi hunksgirl. I was diagnosed with IBS 18 years ago following a bout of food poisoning (apparently IBS is often set off by this). I have a Colonoscopy and Endoscopy; I also get mucus as well and would say it averages around every couple of months or so - this is purely a guess! I have the Patsy Castos books 'IBS Free at Last' and this the FODMAPs diet which eliminates certain foods that trigger IBS symptons; I have found the book fairly confusing but have just been on someone else's post and they have said that a Sue Shepherd has also written a book and it's a lot clearer and easier to follow - I have asked about this one.

All the very best to you

[trishyb59 in reply to Hidden]

hi crazyfitness. i have just bought the book [ the complete low fodmap diet ] by sue Shepard phd, and peter Gibson ' md. it is very easy to follow and some great recipes. i haven't started on it yet as i have hospital apptmt with gastro doc . and want to get his opinion on doing it as for the past 20 yrs i haven't eaten fruit or veg and i think i need to eat them to follow the fodmap properly . i bought the book from the book depository @ 12 .59 euros and free delivery. trisha

[Hidden in reply to trishyb59]

Thanks very much trishyb59 that's really helpful and I will have a look and order the book. Thanks for your help.

[hunksgirl in reply to Hidden]

Hi Crazyfitness - thank you so much for your information. Have noted the book and will have a look at it and the Sue Shepherd one. Can get samples of books on my Kindle.

[Hidden in reply to hunksgirl]

You are welcome and the very best of luck to you