Can IBS be helped? - Bowel Disorders Message Board

achingbelly · 06-19-2008, 07:10 PM

Hi, I'm almost 19 years old and i believe i've been suffering from ibs since i was about 16 its gotten worse within the last two years. I've never had it diagnosed other then by homeopaths. They gave me some disgusting mixture to drink which made me puke it back up promptly the second it got down my throat, meaning it didnt help. I have only brought this up once with my doctor a long time ago I've always figured they can't help just something I have to live with. My father has colon cancer and an uncle and cousin and my sister all suffer from IBS. I'm the only one who suffers from conquers constantly( i have 5 right now for example) which I believe are linked to colon cancer because my father gets them. Anyways I was wondering if anyone has asked their doctors about having IBS and if they can help. Currently I go through immodium like crazy because theres no other way to get through the day lots of the time. If anyone can share so info that'd be great.

suzycat · 06-20-2008, 01:40 AM

Hi, aching-- I don't have IBS, but several of my patients do. Several are on prescription medication which greatly reduces their symptoms. I'm a psychologist, so we work with other factors which trigger episodes ( e.g., stress mngment), and how they feel about themselves, but I don't see this as a substitue for medical intervention. Do you see a gastroenterologist? I believe they would be more helpful in addressing the medical options compared to a primary care doc. Good luck-- let us know how things progress.

Goldie_Locks_5 · 06-21-2008, 09:34 AM

You really should see a Gastroenterologist. IBS symptoms are often the same as colitis symptoms... and untreated colitis can lead to colon cancer because of the damage that is done to the colon over the years.

I don't want to scare you- but since you mentioned that it's in your family, you really need to see a GI.

I hope you can find some relief! I have started to suffer from IBS like symptoms since giving birth a year ago- and plan to see a GI soon b/c of it... nothing is making it better that i have tried on my own.

good luck to you!

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