Ibs mixed - help with symptom management

[NoodlePip]

Hi guys

I need some advice, I have ibs mixed and normally this is very well managed, with just the occasional cramping episode or frequency in bowel movement, particularly the Diarrhea side to things is normally just loose rather than full on Diarrhea. However last week I had an episode of Diarrhea, I was on/off the loo for 1.5hours with horrific cramps and I assumed it was a stomach bug, and was off from work with this. However again today, was going into the gym and had the most horrific cramps and urgency to go with little warning, fortunately there was a toilet nearby and I had another bout of Diarrhea. Due to the constipation side of my ibs I have developed a small fissure, which I have to ensure my stools stay easily passable, so I take a small laxido for daily. I’m now stuck in terms of what to do. I’m worried about taking Imodium as I don’t want it to bung me up and cause a tear in the fissure but at the same time I have to go to work tomorrow and can’t risk having Diarrhea again, I also can’t take time off work as the sickness policy is extremely harsh and I am already being reviewed for having time off (7 days across a year!). I have an occupational health appointment in the morning to discuss my ibs and if there’s any leniency to taking time off if it is ibs related. The whole thing is creating so much stress which isn’t helping the situation and just wondered how you cope with the Diarrhea vs constipation battle? Thanks

[Rosezella]

About 3 years ago I had this problem. Two doctors told me that I could have both diarrhea and constipation and that meant I was constipated. I went through several tests. I got so sick and hurt so badly on my right side. Finally, I went to the ER. I was in the hospital for 4 days. The doctor did a colonoscopy and said my stool was like cow paddies. You should have your problem checked out, possibly have a CT Scan. That's how my problem was found. I am now on Linzess which is for constipation.

[NoodlePip in reply to Rosezella]

Thanks Rosezella, I will go and visit my GP on Monday as I’m off work then. Sorry to hear that you have had a bad experience, I hope your ibs is settled now 🙂