A little guidance

[Spurdog1]

I'm not new to this site, but new to this diagnosis. I have read away from this website (NHS) etc,

Is this something to be scared about, or to treat it kindly (Fibre and chew food more) and you'll be fine? I'm still to see the consultant!!!!

[Rob223344]

You have presumably been given a provisional diagnosis of IBS, and are awaiting a consultant referral. You don’t state your age, but, in general, anybody over the age of 40 years, needs to have a full work up to ensure that a correct diagnosis is made. If it turns out to be IBS, you need have no fear- IBS is not associated with any increased risk of cancer of the bowel, and requires you to modify your diet, including considering a FODMAP’s diet for a while, and definitely taking a good reputable probiotic- I would start with Ferrocalm. You are in good company with up to a good 20% of the adult population similarly affected. There are symptomatic treatments which your doctor can prescribe . I would also suggest, that if the diagnosis of IBS is established, you read Professor John Hunter’s booklet, Irritable bowel Solutions, which is obtainable through Amazon. You can see into which type your IBS falls. I,personally, would suggest that, if you find little benefit from allopathic remedies which your GP might prescribe, homeopathy and herbal remedies might help. Enterosgel is also worth a try if you have IBS-D. It was developed to help reduce symptoms with infective diarrhoea, but has been shown to be useful in patients suffering with IBS-D. There is also Iberogast, a herbal remedy, which might help Good luck and don’t worry !

[Spurdog1]

Oops. Diverticulitis

[Rob223344 in reply to Spurdog1]

Again, you need a proper work up to establish a diagnosis. Chronic diverticulitis, or correctly diverticulosis, is not a pre-malignant condition but needs dietary manipulation, and possible antibiotics if the diverticulae become infected. Investigation will likely include colonoscopy, but having, actually, had this procedure myself, there is nothing to fear.

[Spurdog1 in reply to Rob223344]

It was a colonoscopy that diagnosed this. But thanks for replying (nothing to fear)

[Rob223344 in reply to Spurdog1]

That’s good. Do try a probiotic even if you don’t have IBS, providing you are otherwise healthy. A disrupted microbiome, a balanced one being essential for good health, is very common in a large percentage of the population due to poor lifestyle and diet. Individuals over the age of 65 years, have been shown to be particularly at risk from lack of “ friendly bacteria”.

[Spurdog1]

One thing i do like vegetables, recommended to take. I have noticed synptoms of diarhoea increasing. Wife says im now eating too much greens (though my intake has not changed). It seems contradictory, whether i should increase intake.I tend to think "change nothing" dont rock the boat.

[Rob223344 in reply to Spurdog1]

It might be a good idea to increase the amount of fibre in your diet slowly. There is also the possibility of choosing sources of soluble fibre , rather then insoluble. Ask you doctor to provide suitable suggestions, or refer you to a dietitian.