I have suffered from this problem since the 5th grade!!! It hurts so much sometimes I feel like im blacking out..it is the DEFINITIVE of "pain in the ass"

Hi soprano,
Boy do I understand what you are going through! It is unbearable sometimes and has prevented me from going places and doing things that I other wise would have. I just started a new medication -- so I should be due to be running to the bathroom any minute now.........gotta go......
Lora
ps - got any suggestions for relief from this terrible thing (IBS)

My doctor said for me to try Metamucil. I don't see how this would work since I'm trying not to be in the bathroom so often. Bassett in her book suggested 2 tablespoons of unprocessed raw oat bran per day. I have been unable to find this anywhere. I'm not too sure of how these work with your body to prevent IBS.

Other than this, there are medications, but my doctor has taken this "let's wait and see approach..." and not given me any real medications to try.

Hi,
I have had problems for a long time too. When I started the program it progressively got better. I still have days, but not very many. I have citrucel every night. Its supposed to help keep a balance. I had been using stuff for years but with no luck. Once I realized that I was causing all this I would remind myself that its just the anxiety whenever it started in. Regular exercise, water and relaxation have helped so much. Also just calming down has helped. I think underreacting to it was beneficial, since I knew what was causing it. Not having that "whats wrong with me fear". That was my main reason for staying home so much. Anyways, I am much better and I hope you all can find relief as well. Yes, sometimes that pain is unbearable. I know this is something I will have to keep ahead of. Wishing you all good health. Reena