IBS

I have been suffering with IBS since July, however, things have got worse. Typical symptoms of IBS, constipation, diarrhoea and spasms etc. Been to the GP and they suggested the FODMAP diet.

I am trying to get down on carbs, wheat and gluten but it’s hard.

I was taking Melbeverine and at first, it worked but now it hasn’t been so I stopped. I also have been given Peppermint tablets for before food as well as a special fibre based powder for my drinks.

The main issue is I am still in pain and because IBS is a gray area, GPs don’t know how to help apart from dietary advice. Has anyone got any suggestions?

[grufjones]

It sounds like your symptoms are causing you some distress, so hope you find a solution. I have done fodmap and it worked for me. I am one of a growing group of 'fodmap saved my life' advocates.

Ideally your GP would refer you to a fodmap trained dietitian, however I realise that is not an option in all NHS trusts in the UK.

The key thing with the low fodmap diet is that it works for 70% of those with IBS and you improve your chances of seeing it through with dietitian support and using an app on your phone to learn the food groups/track your gut symptoms. Both the Monash and Tummi fodmap apps are good.

[xjrs]

I agree with the fodmap dietitian referral if you can get it. If you are in pain the GP (or gastroenterologist - if you can get a referral) can prescribe nerve pain agents for the pain such as 10mg Amitriptyline. When you say peppermint tablets, are these enteric coated? This ensures they are delivered to the intestine where they can help with the pain. If they aren't enteric coated you could put yourself at risk of acid reflux.

[mollychaplin]

Hey, after having suffered with IBS for literally as long as I can remember I stumbled upon this product called enterosgel and I swear to you it changed my life! Initially I did not want to spend the buck so I found their trial which gave a month worth of free treatment and it was the best decision I have ever made!! I really recommend you check them out! xx

[301246 in reply to mollychaplin]

Are you IBS C or D? I have some free sachets of enterosgel coming to me in the post today. I am IBS C.??

[mollychaplin in reply to 301246]

hey, I am IBS-D! Tbf, I think it can be used for C as well because of how it works and the way it cleanses your gut, the nurse at the trial was explaining it all, but I would double check on their website! worth a try though!

[Hidden]

Hi there

I've had IBS since 1996 and initially I had a lot of pain and constipation. A few years later I read an article about taking multivitamins and they worked really well for me.

I was doing really well until a bout of food poisoning back in November last year and this past year has seen my IBS worsen. I went from IBS C to IBS C and had loads of nausea as well. I've received a letter from the hospital with a phone number to ring for an appointment with a Dietician, just waiting for a phone call back.

As far as I'm concerned IBS can majorly be affected by diet but also stress as well.

As for pain I just take paracetamol as I found that nothing else I tried had worked.

[IBSNetwork Partner IBS Network]

Hi, Have you tried keeping a wellness diary recording what you have eaten and how you are feeling. This may help you identify your food triggers. More info here theibsnetwork.org/shop/supp...