I have the same problem, I sometimes can't make it to the bathroom in time. I've bought diapers for "those" days and stay home. Mine is almost always caused by stress. If you get more upset I think it just makes the IBS worse. My stool color changes when I have a flare too. Hope your feeling better soon.

Thanks Lynn

Hi Ann, I have the opposite issue most of the time - constipation - so I stay home because of the pain.

My IBS is considered alternating because I have c most of the time and d some of the time.

This may not be medically advisable but when I'm going out, I take immodium if I feel I may have diarrhea. Obviously I limit going out to just a couple times a week. I used to take immodium every single day and wound up in the ER for packed bowels. Yuck and ow!

I hope you find some answers that work for you. Remember that the internet covers every single thing that a symptom COULD mean, but most often the simplest explanation is the correct one.

Yes I find looking up symptoms online confusing and scarey -so I always advise to have your findings double checked with a dr..but also if using adult disposable briefs or whatever you need to..but don't just stay home out of fear of accidents..life is too short and too precious not to be out in it

I have IBS-C but occasionally will get D if I eat the wrong thing and my digestive system gets inflamed. My stool color has changed to pale brown or yellow sometimes and I usually can attribute it to what I've been eating. If yours continues to stay that way, it is something you should have checked. Don't rely on the internet for all your answers. It can be a helpful tool but it shouldn't replace your doctor. And as you have found out, it can scare you into thinking something is worse than it might be.

The worst is when it turns black. Happens when I drink a lot of pepto. I usually get nausea/ indigestion before the d. Guess its my warning cue that I ate something I'm intolerant/ allergic too.

I think it is normal for us when we are hurting to try and seek out answers but the internet has a way of turning it into obsession and we end up bringing unneeded stress on ourselves and that aggravates IBS. Just try and ease up on yourself-you'll be doing yourself a great favor.

Yes , I too take something when I go out and if there is a stressful event. Kegel exercises and not passing gas helps to strengthen the muscle below. Also when you go, make sure you are empty. It's normal for a stool with D to be pale. Isabelle1954

I understand your embarrassment and fear. GO TO THE DOCTOR. They can help you find answers that might be so much simpler than you think. That can be you BEST HOPE OF FREEDOM!!!
The first doctor might not have the right answer, but DON'T GIVE UP.
You can have a better life. You can. Talking to a doctor face to face really, truly is your best chance of giving yourself a normal life, a normal future.

Hello Flower. I have had bouts of yellow or pale stools with IBS. I have also and still have dark yellow urine and seem to pee excessively. I was scared as I felt there might be something wrong with my liver or gallballder. However diagnostics have revealed nothing . IBS is an absolute daily demon. Take care and dont worry.