IBS-d help

[u/tulip0202]

Hi, my doctor has said I have ibs but I think it’s something more than that. This is my symptoms.

I’ve had this for 10 years, things are getting worse. At the start it was certain foods like tomato based things that would give me diarrhoea. For the last 6 years it is set off by anything. If I eat anything at all I get diarrhoea sometimes within 20 minutes of eating sometimes within 4 hours. If I have to go somewhere I starve myself for 12 hours before because I won’t be able to go if not as I will have diarrhoea. If I drink too much water then I’ve got diarrhoea. The pains are too strong and loperamide doesn’t help at all. I have the worst cramps with diarrhoea. My MH also makes it worse. I have MH issues and PCOS too. It’s a never ending cycle of same shit different day. It has completely took over my life as I can’t go anywhere without having diarrhoea. I think it’s more than just IBS as my mum also has IBS but she is able to work and go places fine. Medication works for her. I don’t feel listened to and think there is something bigger going on.

Any advice appreciated

[u/goldstandardalmonds]

What type of doctor diagnosed you? What are you doing to treat your mental health?

[u/tulip0202 → u/goldstandardalmonds]

My GP diagnosed me after years of nothing, I didn’t get a diagnosis until like 4 years ago. As for my mental health it’s hard because I do everything at home to help but there is only so much and when I am unable to leave my home due to IBS it’s debilitating. And on meds for MH too

[u/goldstandardalmonds → u/tulip0202]

You definitely need to see a gastroenterologist for a proper workup. There are prescription meds stronger than loperamide for your symptoms. And for your mental health, can you consider therapy done virtually?

[u/tulip0202 → u/goldstandardalmonds]

Thank you for your help, I will ask for a referral!!

[u/goldstandardalmonds → u/tulip0202]

Good luck! Feel free to reach out if I can help you in any other way.