New to IBS - Freaking out!

[EC36]

Hi,

First time post. I’m 36, based in the Uk and have had digestive issues for the last 5 or so years. Back in 2019 I was diagnosed with IBS, but up until 2 weeks ago it only displayed through me having diarrhoea pretty much daily. Not pleasant, but manageable.

However, 2 weeks ago I started getting stomach cramps, bloating and sometimes sharp pain. This also coincided with me finding some blood on the toilet tissue (I have had that before due to piles) so the Dr has referred me for a Colonoscopy. I have also recently dropped weight, but I have been trying to do so. I’m pretty energetic still and run every day.

I’m freaking out! Perhaps I am being overly sensitive to the symptoms, but reading Dr Google has me worrying about all sorts.

I wondered. Can someone help me with a couple of questions?

1. Has anyone experience Piles as a result of IBS (straining) and have they produced blood?

2. How long to IBS flare ups last? If it is a flare up I believe it’s my first and it’s gone on for 2 weeks.

Thanks and all the best.

[Maureen1958]

My husband doesn't have IBS but he does have piles and yes they can bleed quite a lot sometimes. But then a little blood can go a long way.

As for how long do IBS flare-ups last, how long is a piece of string!

[b1b1b1]

I don't have flare ups. It's just a permanent condition for me. It's good you will be having a colonoscopy, as that is likely to put your mind at rest. Try not to Google.

[Meleber in reply to b1b1b1]

"Try not to Google" A wise advice but so hard to comply 🙂

[Stuart24]

See healthunlocked.com/theibsne...

[3443Ness]

I have ibs and get piles and they do bleed sometimes and a flare up can last for months I'm in to my 7th month now and still struggling I'm waiting to see a gastroenterologist but they have said the waiting list could be awhile before I'm seen. Hope you get to be see soon and get sorted and then it will put ur mind at rest

[Merlinjardin]

I have been very unwell for 9 months. With IBS C and reflux. Had IBS on and off for years. But this is the worst time ever. Lost so much weight. Slight improvement now eating a bit more. Cannot see an end to it though.

[LoinerGuy]

I've had IBS and reflux 36 years, it can vary from mild to stuck to the toilet, i got both internal and external piles as a result. I've had plenty of colonoscopies, nothing to be worried about. I usually go every few years just to check bowel health. Don't worry as that can make it worse, blood could be from internal piles, wieght can fluctuate. my main adivce is be prepared. once they've checked and everything is ok, we can advise you more on what to do next, you do learn to adapt.

[DenSar]

Hi yes. I have had some bleeding every now and then when I strain to go. I have been diagnosed with internal piles in the past so probably related. Flare ups for me can last a few weeks and I feel sensitive to what I want to eat. Hope you feel better soon.

[EC36]

Thank you all for your kind input, sorry for those that are currently suffering. It’s such a dreadful condition.

My symptoms have got worse over the last few days, so trying to work my way around the NHS to get a proper diagnosis. Wish me luck!

[Millenniummel]

You are lucky to have a proactive GP sending you for investigation. Step away from google, it is always going to flag up worst case scenario.

Try researching low fodmap, yoga for IBS, drink plenty of water.

Also make sure to get in the correct position on the toilet, with your hips lower than your knees. I have a little foot stool for this.

I hope the colonoscopy will be reassuring and in the meantime you have some ideas that will only improve your gut health.

[OldTimer74]

I never am right but I do get a few days when it`s not too bad and then out of the blue, wind, cramps, runs etc. Life has changed, tension can`t help obviously. There is just no reason for the massive changes week by week. One week you think the food you are eating has cracked it and the next week you are right back to sq one. For those of us that suffer it`s miserable and the covid conditions around us have an influence I`m sure. I can`t see my life ever getting back to anything like normal. When I read the articles on here I realise that I`m not on my own. Lets try to keep our chins up if we can. Stay safe.

[OSCARBOSCAR]

HiYou could try a low FODMAP diet for a few weeks see if that helps. I don't have milk chocolate, caffeine or sugar & this has helped massively. Also I take a digestive enzyme with 2 meals a day plus do not eat between meals & leave 4/5 hours between meals. If I divert from this then I suffer a little bit but I take senocalm & this helps too. I felt ill for 18 months & lost 3 stone in weight, I paid privately for a consultation & gastroscopy - turns out I had SIBO, a course of antibiotics sorted that but IBS & reflux stayed put - following the regime above keeps me well. Hope this helps & good luck with it all, it's a bit of a nightmare at first. xxx