Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Support Group

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common intestinal disorder that is characterized by bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, cramping, and constipation. Typically no abnormalities appear during standard medical testing, and so irritable bowel syndrome is identified by the symptoms. Although irritable bowel syndrome can cause serious discomfort, the intestines are not harmed.

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Gastrointestinal System
/ Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Support Group

Can this be IBS?

Rachellem
Rachellem
After a diverticulitis attack almost two years ago my bowels seem to of gone crazy.I used to have constipation and now seem to have diarrhea quite a bit.My stools seem to be smaller then usual,not pencil thin, and were in bumpy pieces.

Over a month ago I started metamucil and it seemed to be a miracle.I produced perfect poos and no more bowel pains also no more diarrhea.Now it seems I am right back to where I was.

I have always been a very nervous person and suffer greatly with anxiety and panic attacks.Now I worry constantly about this being colon cancer.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I have a little bit of both. for me it seems like something works and then like you not so much after a while. It's like doing a puzzle or living in one. If your insurance allows go for a colon screening. Either way you would have an answer and that's better than the worry and stress .
Take care, Keep in touch.
deleted_user
deleted_user
IBS is definitely triggered by stress, I have suffered from the condition for 20 years (and I'm only 26). There are a few different types of IBS, which are classified by your symptoms. IBS-C is classified as constipation predominant, IBS-D is classified as diarrhea predominant, and IBS-A is classified as both. Episodes typically include spasms of cramping in your intestinal tract, gas build-up, bulking of stools, things of that nature. When I get an attack, it starts in my upper tract by my rib-cage (left side), and then pushes it's way to my lower-left tract. Pain level can range from moderate to severe, and is relieved with defecation.

If symptoms persist and are not relieved through defecation, there is any blood in your stools, fever is present, or any other sign of something more serious, you need to seek medical care.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Rachellem please if you have insurance or can afford it get a colonoscopy so you can quite worrying about cancer. I have had different kinds of cancer four times so know about the worrying. Always caught it early and never had chemo or radiation. empreresta sounds like what goes on with me. I have had this since I was 16 its a roller coaster ride.Things work for awhile and then they don't so keep trying. HUGS to you.