This reply won't be particularly helpful as I don't have a solution for you but you should know that you're not alone. The symptoms you describe have VERY similar to those I have on a daily basis. I'm pretty much constantly bloated, constantly burping and feel like I need to pass gas when it feels as though there is nothing moving at all (FYI, I don't think there is such thing as FMI within the IBS community.

I have been tested for pretty much everything (including undergoing an abdominal US a few years back when I was first diagnosed with IBS to make sure there was nothing more serious going on). The only thing I tested positive for was lactose intolerance. After all that, my GI slapped me with a IBS diagnosis and sent me on my way.

Have you tried the FODMAP diet? I started it a couple weeks ago on the advise of my family doctor and, although I've had varied success so far, it does seem to be helping over all. It's tough to stick to but when it works, it really works!

Hope this helped a little.

TMI not FMI

Firstly, how old are you? Can the nurse practitioner do a rectal exam for you to check for lumps and bumps, or do you have to see a doctor? Depending on your age (if you're menopausal or post menopausal) maybe it's nothing to do with your IBS; you could ask to be checked for a prolapse. I say this because you mention you had "period like cramps"? Worth asking! Personally, I never bother with the nurse practitioners - they'll only refer you on to the GP anyway if they're not sure, so I find it a waste of my time for anything other than smear tests!!! Good luck

I have this feeling a lot. I have been told it's rectal spasm - it's worse for me in the evenings and sometimes very uncomfortable in the night too. Have you had a sigmoidoscopy? Funnily enough, lactulose can bring it on or make it worse for me. It's well known that rectal sensitivity is a common IBS symptom. Straining is not going to help long term though! Try and relax and not get too anxious about it, and then it will improve.

Hi

From your description it sounds like your ibs is constipation predominant. Have you tried lepicol. I have found this invaluable. The lepicol website is very helpful and informative and carries many testimonials as to its effectiveness.

Get a complete check up from GYN and GI to rule out anything that you might worry about. If they continue to find nothing, ask for Physical Therapy for Abdominal Pain, a new specialty. Take yoga and pilates and don't worry about making rude noises! It's WORRY that makes it worse!

No. Sorry about your baby. If you can get PT or massage it helps break up adhesions and relieve tension. You can learn to do it yourself if you google MELT.

You should ask your doctor for a colonoscopy as any trace of cancer or anything the specialist doesn't like the look of can be found.

If perhaps you find you are intolerant of lactose be aware that a lot of tablet medication contains lactose.

Hi Sammc Ihave had the same symptoms as you and I underst and how stressfull it is . All you think about is having a poo I have just had a colonoscopy which I asked for as I was convinced there was a blockage or prolapse or something . It was all clear and could see on the screen that all was healthy . I have modified my diet and am trying golden linseeds as I have read that they help with bloating etc . I would go back to your doctor and ask for a colonoscopy . I feel better already knowing it's all ok up there . Hope it goes ok .