Ibs anxiety tips? .. and the dentist.

[RobWilde]

Hello everyone, I've suffered horrifically the last 3 years with a post infectious ibs, its not only changed my life phisically but also emotionally. I used to be an electrician working hard and never thought twice about going to the dentist.. However since this illness ive developed this terrible fear of myself. It's not a fear of the dentist i think it's the fear of not being in control. I tyred to "man up" last Monday and I went for a check up, turns out I need 3 fillings but while in the chair I felt like I couldn't trust my body anymore. I felt a big fever come over me and my guts churned and I thought I was going to be sick, especially while holding a thing in my mouth while having the xray. .. As a 32 year old male of course I was trying to be brave but was very glad when the simple examination was over.. However I do think I'll try to arrange for a sedation to have the fillings. It just seams odd that I would react so strongly when I don't actually have a fear of the dentist? Or do I? Is this now part of the new me? Is this what anxiety is? I'm interested to hear if anyone has any similar examples and how you overcome them. Or any tips you might have for me. Thankyou 🙂

[daisie2013]

I am exactly the same, it sounds like you are having panic attacks, it is scary especially not feeling in control of your body & then that sets me off running to the loo. I dread dentist visits, hairdressers or any public outings. I've managed it over the years by deep breathing, rescue remedy, Kalms & making sure I leave plenty of time for any appointments but it's always a struggle. I have tried lots of therapies too ,hypnotherapy, acupuncture, mindfulness & practice yoga & meditation too, I'm sure they all help but I think you have to find your own way to cope. Have you told your GP they may be able to offer cbt? I've avoided tranquillisers but as a short term solution they might help? Hope you can get some help soon, you're definitely not alone with these symptoms & they are debilitating.

[RobWilde in reply to daisie2013]

Thankyou for replying, I've never thought of it like a panic attack, but I guess that makes sense, I'm actually already on a very long waiting list for cbt, I hope I come to the top of the list soon. X

[2stroke]

I remember one time ,years ago going to the dentist for treatment,undergoing the injections, returning to the waiting room where i was on my own.

for some reason fear took over,and i made a dash for the exit door,and went back to work.

the next couple of hours were spent while ALL the time with a numb jaw doing my job,feeling bloody stupid with myself as i knew i had to go through with it again.

Can't think how i did it ,but now have full dentures.NO MORE DENTIST FEARS.YAHOOOOO!!!!.

[RobWilde in reply to 2stroke]

Haha oh dear, I shouldn't laugh but I know I would of done exactly the same thing. Thanks for replying x

[Haylesss]

As the others have more or less said, I think it’s generalised anxiety from the IBS. I never used to worry about going anywhere or doing anything, but the last year has been the complete opposite.

Perhaps taking someone along with you that you trust would help calm your nerves? My poor husband has to come to every appointment I make these days! But it keeps me calm knowing I have someone I can turn to should I get panicky! This might not always be practical of course.. in which case my favourite music helps keep my mind occupied and gets me to the appointment at least. Once there.. lots of deep breathing and trying to remain rational. (Easier said than done, of course). Good luck!

[RobWilde in reply to Haylesss]

That's a good tip I'll ask someone to come with me. Thanks for the reply x

[Lanidove]

Your having panic attacks

Learn how to breathe Meditation will take you out and or there are lots of great supplements herbs etc.

get calm first this too shall pass

[RobWilde in reply to Lanidove]

Thankyou

[Millya]

Natracalm has worked for me in the past to a certain extent, although Kalms didn't work for me. However I started to have high blood pressure and the Doc tried me on various meds which gave me nasty side effects, but eventually realised it was stress related so put me on a low dose of beta blockers ... They have been life changing for me, although I understand they don't suit everybody. I used to get very stressed with my job (I was a teacher) and many things, including going to the dentist, or just being late for something, made me anxious. Not any more, no more high blood pressure and no more stress (changing my job helped too). Good luck with your anxiety.

[RobWilde in reply to Millya]

Thankyou