Cramps and gurgling but no diarrhoea

[PelucaPastora83]

Hi everyone.

This is my first ever post. I feel quite embarrassed saying all this out loud but I’m thinking, as we are all in similar boats that I shouldn’t worry.

So, I was diagnosed with IBS 8 years ago, shortly after having my first child. I have generally been able to manage symptoms with medication. However, over the past year or so I’ve had more frequent flare ups. Usually these start with cramps and gurgling and I then have 2 or 3 large ‘normal’ bowel movements, followed by a few hours of diarrhoea.

However, more recently, I’ve been getting the cramps and gurgling and having the quick succession of ‘normal’ bowel movements and then that’s it - no diarrhoea. The cramps and gurgling continue but nothing else. Is this common/normal?

I have been checked for IBD and other things. IBS has been confirmed (completely by accident) when I had a gastro camera down my throat looking for something else!

I know my symptoms are mild compared to others but I find myself not going to work or going out or going to bed when I have the cramps in case it DOES turn into diarrhoea.

So frustrating!!!!

Thank you all for reading xxx

[FRreedman]

The gurgling and stomach cramps indicate something is going on. Also, the fact that you no longer suffer with diarrhoea indicates a change in your normal bowel movements, so is worth a mention to your GP or GI team.

[Barnclown]

I agree with FReedman.

For what it’s worth, I’ve been managing moderate to severe chronic mouth to a*s conditions all my 66 years, mostly in care with the NHS, and I get cramps & gurgling for several diff reasons, eg during both diarrhea phases & constipation phases...

Am glad you’ve posted...and am glad you’re being proactive about figuring this change out 👍

🍀❤️🍀❤️🍀❤️ Coco

[xjrs]

Have you been given any help with your symptoms? Your GP can refer to to a dietitian to take you through the fodmap elimination & reintroduction diet to see if you have any food intolerances. If you eliminate those your symtoms may become more tolerable/predictable. So I agree with the others - a trip to the GP is needed.