I am somewhat shocked to find so many other people who suffer from IBS like I do. I started having problems around age 12. Nothing has ever worked. I live alone, spent my last day of hs in inschool suspension for being tardy(i.e., being in bathroom). I leave for work in the morning, and suddenly, will have to dart back home to the bathroom. I have a Native American grandparent who had the same problem. My theory is that since they didn't domesticate cows, the enzyme that breaks down lactose and wheat is deficient in this gene pool. Lactose free milk does not work. On the rare date, I'll push sushi for a restaurant.

It really interferes with my job, as I work in a legal field which requires a great deal of patience and attention. I don't eat much, and consequently am thin, but toned enough. Are all IBS people thin? The people I eat out with are usually Vegans and Muslims who are really picky on their food, which works for me, too.

I was in the military, and I felt great sometimes, and had no symptoms for months on end. I go to a psych, and he tells me that it is probably some internalized problem I'm harboring which causes this. Now, here I am, stressed out, single, cannot discuss my problems with anyone. I haven't ever been prescribed any meds, but some of you guys are talking about methadone, etc., for this condition. I see myself in the future living better and eating cleaner food. Any input would be greatly appreciated as this is the first time I've ever really talked to anyone about this besides a doc.

Thanks,

C

This is a tough situation, I have mild symptoms of it, but my husband has had problems with it too since age 12 and he is now 31. He actually just had hemorrhoid surgery which I believe was caused by constant straining from IBS, he did not have the other much. He is fairly average weight, but used to be overweight. Prior to the surgery, he started eating more fiber and this helped a lot but I am not sure if that would help your situation. The Dr. put him on a medication called Zelnorm, it is for women but they managed to get it pushed through the insurance for him to try it and it seemed to help some but not enough for him to stay on it long term. I think sometimes the only thing to do is keep trying different foods, keep track, and see what agrees with you and what does not, something may work for a while then you might have to switch again. A colon cleanser of some sort may also help, but we have not tried that yet. It is very frustrating for him so I know where you are coming from. There really is no cure-all we have found but I think experimenting with food and eating healthy is the key. Hang in there...it's a sensitive subject so I know it is hard to find people to talk to about it, but you'd be surprised what people will tell you if you are open. I am very open about these types of issues and as a result found several people at work that were very open about their bowel disorders who were also struggling. I also encourage a more thorough physical exam from the Dr., possibly a referral to a GI specialist who is more familiar with this issue.