posted 09-19-2002 11:06 AM            

For about a year now, I have been passing very narrow stools. They are quite difficult to pass too; I have to strain whenever I feel the urge to go. They then come out very rapid from the straining and is either very long and continuous or is very loose with actual pieces of everything that I ate. There has never been any blood.

I also get extreme amounts of air caught in my stomach and intestines. When I breathe, my stomach gulps/snaps/gurgles with the air. It is very uncomfortable, shakes my whole torso, and is loud. It prevents me from being able to play my instrument (I am a musician.) I just can't get rid of the air.

I am trying to figure out all possibilities of what may be wrong with me before I go back to the doctor. I went about a year ago and she just said I have IBS. She said I should try changing my diet and I did. No matter what, the same thing happened every day. I spent two months eating only breads, fruits, and vegetables. Nothing helped.

posted 09-19-2002 11:39 PM            

It sounds like you are not intaking enough fiber daily to produce a well formed bowel movement. You need about 30 grams daily. You should think about taking a fiber supplement like Metamucil. It is a stool forming agent that aborbs water and expands----makes you regular----it's also safe to take daily ---just make sure you drink enough water daily.

The trapped air in your stomach sounds like the valve from your esophagus to your stomach is not working properly. It should readily open for you to belch or pass air. You may need a muscle relaxer.
There are several homeopathic remedies to try---Mag Phos and Carbo Veg. --both can be bought at a health food store.

I also think you should be checked out by a Doctor!!!

Harry