Help please...

[Reec]

I’m 29 years old and over the last 4 weeks I have suffered with severe abdominal cramps almost like a constant dull ache that at times intensifies and nausea, my stools have been very up and down and has been going from C to D. I have been to the GP 4 times and the last time I went the doctor said my symptoms sound like IBS. I have attempted to follow a FODMAP diet for the last week and I have a day here and there of relief.

Can a bad flare up last 4 weeks? Or should I be going back to my doctor to find out if it is something else? I’m just really concerned, any advise would be very welcome, thank you!

[IBSNetwork Partner IBS Network]

Hi,

We recommend going back to your GP to get a diagnosis.

If you need help and support with your IBS we are here. Please take a look at our website theibsnetwork.org

[Maureen1958]

Hi, been watching your post for others to reply to you but for some reason nobody has (apart from the IBS Network) so unfortunately you got the short straw ie me ha ha.

Is this your first encounter with these symptoms and IBS?

Not everyone has flare-ups. Some people have it continually, as I do. Has anything happened lately that could have caused it to raise it's ugly head? Something upsetting maybe? Have you eaten anything that could have upset your tummy?

[Reec in reply to Maureen1958]

Thank you for your response it is much welcome!

I have had similar on/off symptoms before but I assumed it may be because certain dairy affects me so I use a lot of lactose and dairy free products.

It all started in our taxi back to the airport when we were on holiday, I am an anxious flyer anyway and then when we arrived home a couple of days later my partner’s uncle suddenly passed away he was quite young so was quite traumatic for the family, so we had to fly over to Ireland so it’s been quite full on the last month.

I was tested a few weeks back for food poisoning but that came back clear, but it’s not to say that I didn’t have it and it passed. That’s what I’m wondering if that could possibly be set the IBS off.

[Maureen1958 in reply to Reec]

The anxiety may well have kicked it off, as equally food poisoning could. Most people don't really know the cause. Also, it's early days yet, so it might just settle down of it's own accord, just keep an eye on it and if it doesn't seem to be improving go back to the doctor again and they may do some tests. If you have a problem with dairy, it may be that you may have issues with other foods as well. There are tests you can do but, personally, I haven't found them much use, but other people on here have.

[Reec in reply to Maureen1958]

Thank you really appreciate the advice. I will keep an eye on it and see how I get on, it’s still very much up and down but I’m being really cautious of what I eat and drink and hopefully that will help to get on top of it. Time will tell, like you say keep an eye on it. Thank you