Newly-diagnosed, looking for tips

[Johnnycomment]

Hi all,

I've recently been diagnosed with reasonably mild IBS-D and was looking for tips on coping in day-to-day life - especially around social events and being out and about.

Thanks in advance!

[littlemissbee]

It's tough, often the fear and anxiety of having an ibs episode while I'm out actually starts the symptoms off. My advice would be to stay calm, don't let it consume you. The less you think about it the better. Try and scope out toilets so you feel in control and if you need to go don't be afraid to excuse yourself. Immodium sometimes helps me on bad days and I know other people advise taking a kit containing wipes, spare underwear etc out with you just as a precaution. Good luck X 

[Hidden]

Do you have IBS C or D and which symptoms do you have to try t overcome

[Hidden]

Sorry just noticed you said D already.  My best remedy is imodium for the odd attacks I now have but I have been gluten free and dairy free and use low FODMAP foods now as I have for 4 years which has sorted me out mostly.

[Hidden]

You should get a RADAR key which will open any disabled toilet in the UK - Google RADAR key and look for the Radar Key site (I can't paste the link here)

Also from your username you are probably male but you should also consider using panty liners (no-one will know) which will help to give you security

[Hidden]

You should also try to find out if a certain food is causing your symptoms like gluten or dairy.  You could try your own intolerance test by leaving out one food group at a time for at least 2/3 weeks keeping a food and bowel movement diary

[runswithdogs]

If you can keep a food diary as has been suggested you might be able to work out some problem foods.  Then avoid these at least on days you're going out. 

Homemade food can help- you know what goes into it, so you can control stuff that might trigger a flare-up.  If your social life involves going out for food that's tougher, but there might be better restaurants or things on the menu that won't bug you.

Also note if particular brands of food or beverages affect you more.  There is one coffee franchise that gives me instant diarrhea, while the rest are fine.  Also, there is some beer that I can drink, others make me painfully bloated. 

[Franjanu]

Hi yes I suffer from gluten egg and dairy allergies for the past 15 years or so. I also can't eat oily or deep fried foods or spicy. Check out my website coconutandwhat.com I'm a certified nutritionist writer and have 150+ recipes you can check out  

I have a post on there all to do with anxiety and ibs check out the tips and tricks I have to deal with it. 

[Johnnycomment]

Thanks for the tips guys, lots of food for thought!