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[Bucks-girl]

I haven't been diagnosed with IBS but I do have many of the Symptoms, Bloating that makes me look very pregnant, (not at my age), very windy at times and often can not be to far from the toilet. I am on meds for anxiety and acid reflux. This has been going on for years and flares up when I get stressed. Doctors say to get the anxiety under control my stomach issues should go, which is easier said than done. I now tend not to do things socially just in case I have an accident, which has happened in the pass. Husband and son are good but don't really understand. So I would appreciate any suggestions on how to control the flare ups.

[Linley]

Hello and welcome. Firstly I suggest you try and see your GP and get the usual tests to exclude other illnesses especially if the bloating is continuous. If all tests are clear and IBS is the diagnois please come back to this wonderful site and we will help all we can. Good luck🍀

[Frasina]

Hi, agree with Linley. You need to rule out all other possibilities especially as you say you have had symptoms and flare ups for years. Ideally, get a colonoscopy done as this is the only sure way to find out if it is IBS or another condition. If tests are clear, then you will need to keep a food diary for at least a month or so to see if there are any triggers. You will also need to document your stress levels as these play a big part in flares etc..Everyone is different; I have had IBS 25 years and had flares on and off during this time. When the IBD D got really bad I stuck to a low fibre diet for a couple of weeks (essentially 'white' foods) as this helped calm my gut; not to do long-term though!! However, you may have an intolerance to something also. I do now have colitis but it is not as a result of having IBS. Many people have IBS related issues but as any GP will tell you, they diagnose IBS once other possibilities have been ruled out.

[angelwings52]

I'd get your doctor to refer you for tests and to see a gastroenterologist for a proper diagnosis (make sure that your gall bladder is checked as well). Try keeping a food diary of everything you eat and drink to help spot any potential food triggers (avoid artificial sweeteners especially sorbitol). Don't drink anything carbonated, it may help with bloating. I still use the Brat diet if my IBS is bad as it seems to calm things down for me, (check online, lots of options). Try to avoid too much fibre as well. You could try hypnotherapy, it's worked really well for me, either through a hypnotherapist or there are some very good apps available, as stress can be a major cause of IBS.