Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | How do you handle the pain??

For the past three weeks I have been having lots of problems, constipation for 5 days then 2 days of diahrea. Then I feel that I have to go and there is nothing there. It all cummulates with extreme pain. Yesterday at work I hurt so bad I took one of the Pamine Forte pills I have, even though I think they do nothing. I also had a heating pad on my stomach, have the reddish rash to prove it. Finally, last night I just laid in bed curled up since I hurt so bad. No sleep and here I am at work again today hurting. I am drinking Chamomile tea, can't have the peppermint due to reflux and hate the fennel, and eating plain soda crackers. I know it is not my diet since I have cut back to the basics.
So what else can I try and how does everyone else handle the pain, especially when you have to work. My job is very unforgiving about being out and I have no sick days left so time off is not an option if I want to keep my job. I need it for the insurance so I am stuck. Any help is appreciated since I feel very left out and alone all the time lately.

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