How bad does IBS get?

I have been suffering such extreme pain and discomfort as well as diarrhea ( controlled by immodium) for months now. II might be fine for a week and then it returns again. I get digestive symptoms whenever I try to take ibuprophen for pain (and it barely makes a dent). My doctor is reluctant to prescribe any other meds but I do use alprazolam so I can relax to sleep. Are stronger meds really the answer to these symptoms? Should I be demanding medications to try?

Hi. I have been struggling with IBS as well . I have found that taking daily probiotics is helping and adhering to diet . For me with the runs I would not eat raw fruits and veggies nor fried foods or caffeine. If it went the other way I would increase fiber . I have also found that any drugs with ibuprofen irritated my stomache. I hope you have a doctor that is knowledgeable about FM and IBS. If not perhaps you could find these doctors . Sometime general practitioners and internists in addition to gastro intestinal and rheumatologists can have some knowledge or be open to the information on these subjects . I wish you all the best

HUGGGGGGGGGGGGS

Suzie

I have had IBS for over 10 years. Mine is mostly stressed induced. I too have found that taking a probiotic every day helps so much. Other than that, I just take fiber when I get constipated and something like immodium for diarrhea. Good luck finding what works for you

Hello valleyhopper,

Sorry to hear of the problems you are experiencing. I don't suffer from IBS, but I do have digestive problems, and know the misery of continual discomfort. For me, I try to notice my triggers, and keep a careful eye on my diet. Eliminating things, to see what might be adding to the pain you feel. P'raps ask you Doctor, or be referred to a dietitian, who can advise you. Good luck, and let us know how you get on.

Take care, Anne