Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | The Magic Ball...It worked for me!!!

I've been gone from the boards for a while, but wanted to write and let folks know what has worked for me.

I suffered chronic IBS-D for almost a year between April 2003 and March 2004; I still have symptoms today, but for the most part have it under control.

Heather, and the folks on this site gave me a lot of strength when I was first hit by illness; and I will always be greatful for your support.

What finally worked for me was a mix of the following; all contributed but I believe the greatest benefits were from my top 3.

1. diet changes (thanks Heather!)
2. 50mg Sinequan prescription(thanks Specialist),
3. Classical music & a rubber ball (explained later...)
4. Enteric Coated Pepermint caps with any dodgy meals
5. Hypnosis for IBS

From dietary changes and Relaxation techniques (3 + 5 above) I made a 60-70% recovery from symptoms; and when this was combined with a prescription drug called Sinequan I was back to 90-95% relief of symptoms.

The last 5-10% is typically when I have to travel and will be away from a toilet; but this is pretty much totally manageable thanks to my IPOD and an old Raquetball ball. I close my eyes and listen to classical music whenever I feel a problem coming on, and squeeze the rubber ball as a kind of mental hand-brake; similar to that learned on the Hypnosis CD, but a physical manifestation. Believe me guys this may sound really peculiar, and I have had a few funny looks, but it works. I actually introduced the ball following a hand-operation last year and this cemented the approach for me helped me have much better control.

Anyhow, Heather is an absolute gem for authoring her books and setting up these boards; and if you're getting half the help I received in the early stages you are all very lucky; and well placed to get your symptoms under control. IBS is a horrible curse, and I would not wish it on my worst enemy, but if hold your ground and use trial and error to find what works for you; you can learn to live with it.

I wish you all the very best, and hope to see some more success stories over the coming months.

All the best

--------------------
Tim

-A poor man's Jamie Oliver...without the attitude!

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