I'd have to say that, looking back, I've probably had IBS most of my life. I remember having lots of "tummy" aches and "nerves" even as far back as elementary school. Tummy attacks all through school...even in college. My pediatrician called it "a nervous stomach".
I wasn't diagnosed with IBS until about four years ago. About eight years ago I had a colonoscopy, after having some minor bleeding and D. The colonoscopy only showed mild diverticulosis and the Dr. said the bleeding and D was due to infectious D. Now I never use a public restroom without putting either toilet paper or one of those toilet seat tissues down before I sit on the seat. I wash my hands and then use the papertowel to turn off the water and open the door before tossing the paper towel in the trash on my way out. Even here at work. Any way...back to the IBS....
My IBS intensified about four years ago after my grandmother passed away. I was very close to her and watched her deteriorate in the hospital the last three weeks of her life. I went through a horrible time afterwards. Depression, IBS-D practicall every day, sleeplessness, no appetite, etc., etc. My regular doctor wanted me to have another colonoscopy and my Gastro. Doc said I didn't need one and got me on my way to treating the IBS with diet, etc. My regular Doc eventually got me on Zoloft, but he wasn't much help otherwise and didn't seem to be listening to my concerns. So that's when I found a new doc whom I am very comfortable with. He suggested counceling/therapy and I was eventually able to get off Zoloft completely for depression.
Now I basically just watch what I eat...portion control, fat and fiber content, etc. I don't really follow a "diet". I just get suggestions, recipes from the this web site and Heather's book and other research. A lot of it is just "trial and error", too. I try to control my stress (although not very well at times.) I try to get exercise through walking, yard work, etc. and yoga when possible.
I basically have it under control as long as I follow what I know works for me. I'm no longer on any medication and only take Imodium on occassion.
Best of luck to everyone. I love this board.
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Re: POLL: How did you IBS start?
