December and flare ups

[Wheatstone20]

I have suffered with chronic IBS D for over twenty years and I always seem to get worse this time of year, but I have no idea why!

I have tried many different anti depressants to try to alleviate the problem, and I am currently on citalopram which doesn’t seem to do anything. I am resorting to taking Imodium nearly every day which just makes everything worse when it comes to a head.

I would love some advice as the only thing O can do to get through these hard times is eat very little, which isn’t healthy and not good long term. I would love some help.

[XDjames]

I posted recently on what seems to be my seasonal recurrence. No clue why, and I seemingly can do very little other than accept the temporary trashing of my life. It does pass and there are good days.

[TedsMum247]

I sympathise with you, my IBS has got worse over the last 5 years, but I've had it for about 18 years. Could it be the onslaught of Christmas for you, the added stress etc? It is with me, the thought of family, grandchildren descending on us for days, having my routine shattered as much as I love seeing them all. Just a thought.

[Misspomfrey]

I always think this time if year is worse for IBS sufferers and for a lot of other people too. It's stressful, it's dark, it's winter. As we all know, stress and anxiety triggers IBS symptoms and what happens around Christmas upsets our routines. I just can't cope these days with too much upset to my routine. It makes me ill and my IBS just keeps flaring up. Sometimes we just don't know we're stressed and anxious, as there's nothing obvious, but it's there. Fortunately, I am able to get through Christmas and winter in my own way without any distractions, and I prefer it that way. Others just can't avoid it. Are you getting enough Vitamin D? I take a supplement during winter, don't know if it does any good, but i am muddling through as best i can.

A good probiotic helps me. Good Luck , it will soon be the shortest day 🙂

[flanimals123]

hi Wheatstone

I wonder if a few things maybe effecting your tummy … it’s always a very stressful time preparing foods and shopping for gifts. Also the type of food changes lots of sugary foods , pastries maybe greasy foods and of course chocolate 😀. It is such a temptation. ! I’ve had IBS D for 10 yrs. Ow and I really have to become more disciplined this time of year. Also take time out to have some relaxation yoga/Thai chi or just sitting with cups and having some down time. I really hope things improve so you can enjoy the festive season.

[Batgirl3111]

Yep, I agree with the above answers. I definitely find this time of year worse, the lack of daylight and the stress of Christmas becomes too much. Have you tried taking some time each day for yourself, maybe try a bit of meditation or mindfulness? Also, try and have a walk outside in the daylight? They are only small things but I do think they help. And, as hard as it is try and stick to your normal diet as much as possible. Good Luck!

[vickyc74]

Hi there sorry to hear you are suffering. Have you tried Symprove probiotic its very good and is helping me I am on my second week. I take vitamin D now in winter as i have noticed that it starts to flare up in October. I also take Tumeric and I have started magnesium which is good for stomachs. This can be a very stressful and emotional time for some, me included, so I am trying to hold that thought and ride with it I wish you luck hope it calms down a bit x

[Frasina]

I will echo what others have said and you do need to write down in a diary if you are getting more anxious/stressful than normal. This time of year many people suffer (to different degrees) with SAD - seasonal affective disorder which results in low mood but only in winter months - they are fine in the summer!The gut will become a lot more temperamental often in the winter and your IBS D becomes a lot worse. Sadly, it's a vicious cycle.

You must still eat as eating very little can give you other issues down the line; I know of people who do use Imodium on a more regular basis that what is suggested and gastroenterologists have supported this. However, we are all different, and so I would get the OK from a medical professional first. Personally, I would also get a blood test done to see if you are short of certain minerals/vitamins too.

[Elliehca]

I am the exact same. Mine got worse after my gall bladder removal and it’s utterly miserable! I have just bought Symprove to try out of desperation. I’m going to take the first dose on Friday. My auntie got it and said it changed her life, so I’m hoping it’s the same. Maybe it will be worth a shot with you, but it’s mega, mega expensive!

[Pollyboo in reply to Elliehca]

Hi Elliehca, just seen your reply and noticed you have had gallbladder removal. I had my gallbladder removed 11yrs ago and my ibs was so much worse after. My GP prescribed me a bile binder Cholestyramine and I take it everyday. It has helped me not perfect but I couldn't live without it. Just wondering if you have heard of this and if could be some help to you.Take care Pollyboo

[Elliehca in reply to Pollyboo]

Thank you, I did mention to my GP that I have had more trouble since my gall bladder removal and she said ‘oh yes, that can happen’ and told me to take buscopan! They just are not interested! I just came back from a Christmas dinner this evening and had to visit the toilet twice 😳. It’s no way to live.

[Sparrow58 in reply to Elliehca]

I have also had my Gallbladder removed over 10 years ago and I was really bad with my IBS after. I really struggled and the GP said the totally wrong thing " It's just your IBS" 😡

I wonder if it is common for people with IBS to get gallbladder problems?

I take Symprove daily, I have done for about 2 years it has helped, by reducing the severity and frequency of flare ups. It did make things a little worse at first while the gut balances and I was glad I started it at the weekend and I was home.

If you have problems or need advice their customer service is good too.

[Elliehca in reply to Sparrow58]

Thank you, I’m starting it this weekend too. Glad that it’s helped you, fingers crossed I can get a similar result.

[MatthewU]

How long have you been taking Citalopram and what dose?