Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Long-term consequences of IBS on life

HI Tom,
I can really relate to everything you wrote about. First off, I am 23 and from Ohio, but am currently studying in England for the year for an MA degree. I've had IBS since I was probably 14 or so, and I'm an IBS A, but it only got bad within the past 2 years. I went from attacks 2-3 times a year to at least 2-3 a week. At my worst, I was miserable every day for about 6 months. I still cannot believe I graduated college during all of that, but somehow I made it. I remember taking a trip to Vienna with my now fiance and a grounp of 20 for a class...I was miserable. Unable to eat, always in pain...I cried for hours and thought my life was over. How can I do anything like this? So, Later that year I got on Lexapro and was able to start leaving the house more and getting to work more often. (Calling off work was a bit too easy for me, and I ended up calling in way too much).
Anyway, the long story summed up is this. I had to choose if I wanted to get my MA. I decided maybe school would be easier than working 5 days of week. Then my fiance and I had to find a place for both of us...and it ended up being England. I cannot tell you how scared I was that I would be sick here. Something in me clicked when we got here. This is MY life. I AMin control of it,(even though when the stomach pains hit I certainly don't believe it!) and I am NOT giving up all of my dreams of traveling and such for a stupid belly. Now, it's true that I still have some really bad days (like today even...booo) but I have to believe that I can do anything. And so far, through preventative immodium that I ALWAYS have with me, I've only had to cancel plans with friends once in 2 months.
As for careers to avoid, I think the best advice I can give you is to never give up a career just out of fear.(How much Lexapro are you on...? I was on a really small amount, but you can always increase and see if it helps..talk to your doc) Almost anything can be adapted. There are a lot of teachers on this website that have said they have support with nearby teachers who can pop in and take over in an emergency.
I am choosing to stick with Educational Theatre mainly because it's what I love. It could involve a lot of traveling, and a lot of stress, but I have always felt that if I don't do it I'm letting my belly win.
I don't know if this helps, but just know I, along with many people on this site, really understand and feel for you.
Take care and good luck. We would all LOVE to see you become a reporter and embrace that dream!

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IBS-A

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