Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | New, young, confused -- Accidents & Trauma?

Hi,

I am a university student (20 years old) who has been suffering through IBS-D for about two years (the first of which went undiagnosed). For the first 18 years of my life, I was symptom free. Then, one night, I went out to dinner with friends and then for a walk, during which I had an "accident" (D) in the middle of the street. It was very humilating and traumatizing. I believe that I only had food poisoning, and if I had been able to find a bathroom, I would never have developed the IBS that I now have. I can no longer do the things I used to be able to do (sports, travel, hiking, sometimes even just leave the house) or eat what I used to be able to eat (practically anything). Also, instantly after the accident, I began having the symptoms that I still have today (pretty typical IBS-D).

I am wondering if anyone knows anything about accidents and trauma, and if this one incident could be at the root of my IBS. Also, what can I do to overcome the trauma so that I can go on leading a regular life? Is this even possible?

Additionally, I am currently at university, which makes things even more difficult. Sometimes it is difficult to go to class, find things to eat in the cafeteria (although I have started cooking for myself in the dorm kitchen, but time and resources are limited), and have a social life, particularly when so much of college socializing involves alcohol (which, obviously, I tend to stay away from). Any advice or empathy would be much appreciated.

Thank you so much. It's wonderful to find a community that is so understanding.

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