First timer

[artysylv]

good morning all, new to this site, I think I have IBS yet to be confirmed by my GP, I am missing out on so much just lately because of the fear of going out and where is the nearest loo, (I play golf so out on the course for 4/5 hours with out a loo!!!) I have been reading all your comments which I am finding informative, looks like I need to start a food diary , I love coffee butter bread all the things I should not be eating, looks like it is going to be a long lonely road, I am going to Italy in 10 days and I am dreading it, perhaps stop eating before I go!!!

[Hidden]

I really do hope your GP has done the relevant tests to rule out all possible known causes of your symptoms before you're told, 'it's IBS' as all that means is that he/she doesn't know what's wrong with you.

Many doctors don't do all the tests and people with bowel probs just get shoved under the IBS umbrella and left to sort themselves out.

[runswithdogs]

Sometimes traveling gives good insights as to what foods bother your system. I find I eat very different in other countries, so sometimes my IBS does really well, other times it's a disaster. But all good information for a food diary. I find the digital/phone ap ones easiest to use. I find it too difficult to record at home at the end of the day.