Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Hey I can SO relate to the fear of an attack in your situation. I have been teaching in colleges for a number of years although my doctoral degree is in a music area where I not only am required to lecture but where I also must regularly perform in front of many in very stressful situations. For a long time, until I was finally diagnosed with IBS, I just did not eat or drink before performances - even if they were at night for fear of the consequences and I waited to eat meals until after my classes. (NOT good - I got migraines). Now that I know what the problem is, I have learned to eat smaller meals but more often and to keep something like a small bag of pretzels with me (I have an hour and a half commute) for when I begin to feel nauseated. It has helped me stop having daily attacks to be extremely careful what I eat. I finally got the courage to let some of my fellow faculty members and even some of my more trusted students know that I deal with IBS and they have been extremely encouraging and sensitive about it. Once or twice when trying to learn how to control it I had to leave for a restroom. I asked my students to look over some information and told them I would be right back. They did as I asked, were very respectful when I returned, and never have given me trouble about it even though some are aware of why I had to go out. I find that when I am open and honest with my students about this sort of situation that they understand and gain more respect because they see my human side. Sometimes it even gives me an opportunity to help one of them. By the way - I have always had non-traditional age students in my classes. No matter how old I have been I have always had someone in my classes who was much older! Still, they have come to learn what you have to offer and respect the fact that you have already learned it and are good at it. Don't worry about gaining respect. If you know your material, present it well because you are well-prepared, and dress and act professionally your students will always respect you and act accordingly. They will want to be as good as you are.

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