New to IBS

[DeeferDawniE]

Hi all.

I was recently told I have IBS. The nurse I saw prescribed mebeverine to take up to 3 times a day when needed and advised me to keep stocked with anti diahorrea tablets so it doesn't interfere with day to day life.

I've since been told there should have been tests run? I am completely new to this and don't know whether I need to be asking more questions or for second opinion.

I have been changing my diet according to what disagrees but this past week I've been feeling generally "off" and don't know whether this is another symptom of IBS or just me. I don't like to make a fuss generally but I am feeling rather lost and have no one to talk to regarding IBS that might be able to help and advise me a bit.

Sorry for the long message guys and thanks for taking the time to read.

[alwayshope111]

Hey there. One test I recommend would be a blood test to check to see if your IBS is making you deficient in any nutrients. You may also wish to test for food intolerances, which can be done privately if you wish for an extensive test. Tests for dairy/wheat intolerances can usually be arranged by your doctor. If you have any suspicions that what you have is more than IBS, you may wish to discuss with your doctor colonoscopies and gastroscopies.

You may be feeling off due to changes in your diet and you may adjust, but do go with your gut feeling, if you feel there may be more to it, always go back to your doctor. The first year I experienced my symptoms I went back to the doctor to check each time it was just my IBS, and I'm now more familiar with my symptoms.

Don't worry too much about making fuss, as you're asking for advice to get the good health you deserve, no fuss there

[DeeferDawniE in reply to alwayshope111]

Thank you so much. ☺️ I will take your advise and go back to DRS and ask for blood test.

[Robinson32]

I first started getting my ibs symptoms when I was 27, now 33, and I straightaway went to the doctors after about a month of being regularly bloated and not much of an appetite. I was so worried that it was something more sinister as my symptoms really came out of nowhere. Having 3 or 4 different blood tests done ruling anything serious out (celiac, Crohn's, gluten intolerance etc) gave me peace of mind and this is a step you should take. Once you know it is ibs and nothing more serious (I use that term lightly as ibs can be extremely debilitating for some) then you can try and cope best with your symptoms, manage them in ways that best suit you.

[pajohns]

Hi

I'm new too. I've been having trouble for about two years but only diagnosed yesterday.

I think you probably aught to get some more tests done. I've had blood test and a colonoscopy (although not an allergy test, I'd be interested in how to go about that) all of which found nothing. There's things your gp needs to rule out.

Hope you start to feel better soon and get the right help!

[DeeferDawniE]

Thank you all ☺️. And pajohns I hope you are doing ok now