Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Still confused and asking more questions, sorry

Let's see which questions I can answer.

As for IBS being genetic, I don't think it's proven, but I strongly believe it is. Bowel problems run in my mom's side of the family... I call it the Family Curse. My mom's had IBS for years. I think it's definitely genetic.

As for when it comes on, that's totally individual. I've had a mild case most of my life that got worse just a few years ago, but I've heard of people getting it at all different ages. Heather says it may be caused by some kind of trauma to the gut, which can be caused by medications, procedures, etc. It seems pretty possible to me that your C-section "triggered" your IBS, although you were almost definitely prone to it to start with. I suppose your bad food could have triggered it too if it traumatized your gut. You may never know. I don't.

And yes, weight is definitely a factor. If you lose weight and exercise regularly that can definitely help reduce your symptoms!

Symptoms can change throughout your life, but IBS doesn't go away, unfortunately. But the good news is that it may get a lot better and once you get your symptoms under control it's easy to live a normal life with it!

I hope that helps. Welcome to the boards and good luck!

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"Anyone can exercise, but this kind of lethargy takes real discipline." -Garfield

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