How did you exsplain IBS to others?
#154239 - 02/25/05 04:19 PM
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I think the books I bought address this somewhere.
Haven't read it yet.
I am still very shy bout my IBS.
I'm still in the "NO, I can't come. Something I ate didn't agree with me" phaze.
When and how do you openly admit this?
And to whom?
When people ask what is IBS, how do you describe it and exsplain it to where they GET how serious this is?
I hate that my inlaws think I have a social anexiety problem, or am lazy or am just making hubby do stuff I can't. My MIL was once a nurse long ago back when IBS type stuff was considered "all in their head".
Any advice on what to say?
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I tell people that I have chronic stomach disorder so there are certain things I can't eat and that I need to be very careful with my health as a result. Some people it takes some emphatic "No, I will get sick and I don't want to do that to myself" to get the point through to them, but I'd rather have offend someone than make myself sick!
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Melissa
Friendship is thicker than blood. ~Rent
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family and close friends I've been honest and specific with.. coworkers and not so close friends I mention food allergies (I am allergic to dairy) and I treat the other foods that set me off as allergens to them... most people if you mention having multiple food allergies get much more understanding of your being picky about food.. a few coworkers who comment that I wear dresses when we have a relaxed dress code at work and I am friends with I have told that eating the wrong thing bloats me and a few have even seen it on days I've worn pants so they understand! it works... as to the rest- I have a medical note about a chronic bowel condition on file so bathroom runs won't affect job performance in a stats oriented company, but otherwise I just cope and try to avoid making a big deal out of things.
Amie
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Dietetics Student (anticipating RD exam in Aug 2010)
IBS - A
Dairy Allergic
Fructose and MSG intollerant
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I just flat out tell them I have IBS. Doesn't bother me one bit nor am I embarassed about it. You will be surprised how many people know what it is or even have it! And when they ask what it is I say Irritable Bowel Syndrome and that speaks for itself. Usually they don't want to know any more!
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~~~Lisa~~~
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This has come up not so long ago I think but it was in terms of dating. It's here if you're interested (my post is there too somewhere). Hope this helps.
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Amy
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I am very open about my UC. As a result several co-workers came to me and admitted they have the same problem. One girl told me that she was so happy about how open I was (I make a lot of jokes about it) that she felt comfortable enough to confide in me. As a result we had a small group of IBS and UC sufferers support group at work. Others who had to go for colonoscopys or began to experience problems came to us for advice. The best thing you can do is be open and honest about it - people will understand, ask questions, read up on it and try to help. Prayer is a great remedy too. Good health to you. If your MIL was a nurse maybe she can help you out, direct her to web sites that can explain it isnt all in people's heads - open up to her privately - it will improve your relationship. In defense of the all in your head people - I thought my problem may be all in my head too - it isn't, its the other end (LOL). Feel well.
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I have told all my friends. They know that I have IBS which means I have a restricted "diet" and that I occasioanlly have bad tummy days. They aren't grossed out or anything. They feel bad for me.
My family knows.
My work does not know. I got called into my head bosses office yesterday because I missed too many sick days last year. I told him that I had a condition last year that was really bad and that's why I missed so much time. He stopped me right there and told me it was none of his business and I didn't have to tell him. So I didn't and never will. But taht's your choice to make. I didn't get in trouble at all. He just laughed about these new absenteeism rules and told me to never worry that they would never ever fire me. YAY to that! 
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I wish I had your boss. Mine is constantly on the verge of firing me. If I wasn't so very good at what I do I know I'd have been gone the first six months. Yet I'm still hanging on after three years. Sometimes I wonder if I shouldn't send him an email and just tell him "Look I have this condition that puts me down sometimes." But then I remember what a jerk he is and I don't bother.
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Sometimes I walk backwards to see where I have been!
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This has been one of the hardest parts of the IBS for me. The people I currently work for know what I have and its surprising how many people that work there actually have IBS as well, but aren't even aware or doing anything about it. I'm moving jobs soon and am a bit worried about having to tell them, but to be honest, if they have a problem with it, then thats up to them - best to be honest I reckon, yes, it can be a bit embarrassing, but sticking up for yourself and being strong is the best and only way! Helps with going out for meals with them! My family aren't very aware of what happens and they still are asking "can you eat that" or say "oh, sorry you can't eat that can you" and it rubs me up the wrong way each time - I want them to understand; but I guess its going to take a bit more time!
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I told the people at work thinking it would relieve some pressure for me (in case I have to use the bathroom), but now I am constantly worried that I am going to have to use the bathroom and excuse myself from a conversation with someone...I think because they know, I am constantly trying to prove myself healthy. Does anyone have any advice for me on how I can look at this situation differently?
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