Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Worst case scenario...what would you do?

I've had too many of those worst case scenarios to count, but your question isn't about health (dying because of an attack) it's about your dignity (dying of embarassment).

My dignity goes out the window when i ahve attacks. It's like that patient in the hospital, the one wandering around with the back of his gown open? Health and pain management come before dignity. I've jumped out of a slowing car because the person behind the wheel wasn't taking my attack seriously (ok, that one might be a 'health' issue...).

My worst was being trapped in a circling airplane outside of Heathrow. The air pressure and my full gut had me looking like that guy in "The Scream" -- my neighbor accross the aisle thought I was having a heart attack. I had to stumble off the plane, abandon all lugggage and plow into the nearest bathroom (there IS no nearest bathroom when you're in an airport gate) where I made sounds and smells that frightened children.

But I survived. I even got my luggage back. It was horrible, then it was over. If women give birth in public places, I can get over an occasional public attack.

One more thing: That kind of pain is RECOGNIZABLE. People see it and know it. Don't discount empathy from strangers. Especially women!

Good luck,

~nel~

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