Worsening IBS?

[Lydia1960]

Have been under a lot of stress recently, and for a number of years.. Been getting pain in the upper part of my stomach,, and despite taking laxatives, recently have been having difficulties with regular daily stool movements.. .. Just wondering is it likely that my IBS has escalated, and might calm if the stress does, or could I have a separate issue, like perhaps an infection, that could be causing this pain...?

[Hidden]

Hi Lydia,

Only a qualified doctor can tell you whether you have other issues like an infection going on.

I would add that in my own experience IBS can escalate through stress. And I did improve things by changing my reaction to stress. You may find this article of help: sickofibs.com/ibs-triggers/...

Alison

[Lydia1960 in reply to Hidden]

Have been checking symptoms online and it kept suggesting that drinking copious amounts of water aids this disease. So I'll give that a try before thinking in terms of doctors. Thanks for the rest of your advice.

[Hidden in reply to Lydia1960]

While it's important to drink enough (1,5-2 litres per day?), forcing yourself to drink copious amounts of water can actually do you harm. My advice is to go gently on your body and very gradually increase fluids, and see how you go.

For me drinking water was never a solution. IBS tends to be much more complicated than this. Seriously explore your stress reactions. If it is stress then this article may be of use as a starting point: sickofibs.com/well-being/a-...

Alison

[Lydia1960 in reply to Hidden]

Yes, I only drink as much water as my body will permit. Definitely, it is stress that is the major contributing factor here. If I can get that under control, things would improve, you're right..

[Nicki1984]

Agreed doctors will always want to test and rule anything else out it would also put your mind at rest.

Stress and anxiety is a big IBS trigger and can certainly cause your IBS to become worse and prolonged. Working on your stress will help ease your IBS. Have you tried anything so far? X

[Lydia1960]

Been recommended that increasing my daily exercise would provide some relief, so I am doing precisely that. It is assisting me with controlling these symptoms, but you're right. A trip to the doctors could prove reassuring...

[Nicki1984 in reply to Lydia1960]

Maybe some counselling or therapy title help your stress levels x

[Lydia1960 in reply to Nicki1984]

I'm due to have some counselling soon, so can see what is said during these sessions. A very good idea...