New member - symptoms??

[imok56]

I'm new here but would like to know if anyone has similar symptoms...

I have been diagnosed with probable IBS (D but sometimes C) by my GP (exclusion diagnosis after various tests). My main symptom is discomfort in the upper right abdomen which is just about always present. Occasionally it is more painful, feeling like 'something is in the way'. A low FODMAP has been suggested, but I'm reluctant to start on this as it seems complex & potentially causes problems, from what I've read.

I had IBSD many years ago, while working in a stressful environment, and I found Aloe Vera juice helpful. but my current discomfort is completely different.

Any thoughts welcome!

[edwangy]

Could be your gall bladder

[OldTimer74]

Hiya, know where your coming from, sometimes certain foods etc seem OK and then my problems start over and I have to try different foods etc. One thing for sure is that anxiety plays a major roll in things which is no wonder in this changing world. Hope you feel better soon.

[xjrs]

Here is my general advice about IBS in a previous post of mine:

healthunlocked.com/theibsne...

[Happystart]

Hi, I also have IBS D, everyone is different, but I do find the FODMAP diet helpful. If it's a new pain, discomfort make sure you go see a doctor to check you over. Hoping it eases soon for you.

[LFHell]

Yeah i would ask for more investigation before starting low fodmap. Its horribly restrictive and expensive to folllow (if you are intolerant to all the groups of foods) you want to be sure you need it. It does help tho if they find nothing else. Agree right side is gall bladder? Is it worse after fatty foods?

[Hidden]

Sorry to hear about your new problem. You don’t specify your age, or duration of symptoms, or whether you have been experiencing a change in bowel habit, or whether your pain is associated with the consumption of fatty foods . You haven’t specified, also, what investigations were carried out to establish the diagnosis of IBS. Who has suggested a low FODMAP diet? Your GP? Persistent gall bladder symptoms are unusual but could represent a gallbladder filled with gallstones. Did your GP diagnose IBS when your abdominal discomfort was present?

My advice to you is to go back to your GP asap. A detailed history and examination needs to be carried out, especially one which includes an examination of your abdomen. You certainly need an urgent abdominal ultrasound, and a decision as to whether your pain might be originating from your colon, especially if you complain of a change of bowel habit.

The cause of your problem might well be IBS, but that cannot be assumed until other causes have been excluded.

Good luck

[angelwings52]

I had similar pain and it was my gallbladder - I'd recommend getting further tests as soon as you can. Your GP should have referred you to a gastroenterologist as they're the only ones who can make a correct diagnosis of IBS.

[imok56]

Thanks to all for their replies. My abdominal discomfort started last year & that was why I went to the GP. I've had ultrasound/blood/stool tests & don't have coeliac, cancer, gallstones etc. I've had a recent liver scare - alcohol-related, so I've reduced that a lot & stopped altogether for a while.

I haven't identified any specific foods as a problem but seem better with white sourdough - I wish I could get the hang of making my own! Proper kimchi may have helped too (made by a Korean for me), but I need to try for longer/more regularly.

I've been spending some time reading posts & info on the IBS Network.There's so much info on here! I'm just starting some Ferrocalm (tried Symprove previously). I think now I need to be more consistent & probably try things one at a time.