Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Hey Ladies! I am posting this here, because I thought it was the best place.

I have IBS/Colitis. It was bad throughout High School and lessened as I went to college. Well, about 2 years ago (I'm 26). It came back with a vengance. They diagnosed the IBS/Colitis and also found a polyp.

I've been having another Colitis flair-up. I remember going to the ER as a child for similar problems - severe constipation/gas/fatigue/abdominal pain. So, I thought I would contact my parents and get my medical history from them. I want to see if there is a connection between the attacks.

My parents said at 1 year old I was in the ER for constipation/gas. It was attributed to Lactose Intolerance. My first IBS attack was a 4 years old, as a result of eating a cheesestake. But they couldn't remember anything else. I remember being in the ER for a similar problem as a child (5-10 years old), so I know that there is more information there.

To get to the point - everytime I had a problem/went to the ER as a child, they did not think there was an issue. They did not take me to see a Gastro-enterologist, nor did I know to ask. They said I should loose weight, take a walk, and stop eating junk. They also said it was all "in my head." That would be it. They didn't offer any help in making any changes.

Flash forward to now, I get really down on myself when I have a flare-up. I feel like I have done something more or I am doing something wrong. Or that there is really nothing with me and I'm imagining that I have a medical problem and I am irresponsible. I do try to take care of myself with a good diet and exercise.

But I also have a feeling of frustration and anger toward my parents for not helping or taking care of me when I needed it.

Anyone else have a similar experience or feeling? What helps you deal with it?

Thanks for letting me get this out.

BB,
Pythia

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