When my stomach started feeling like it was in a vice grip, I initially chalked it up to a virus—those nasty ones that twist your insides and make you feel like you might explode at any moment. After a harrowing 45 minutes in the bathroom, I’d feel fine, only for it to happen again a week later. What was wrong with me?
I’ve always had a delicate digestive system, sometimes battling constipation and other times dealing with diarrhea, but this was a whole new level of awful. Things deteriorated after I had my first child, and I was at a loss for what might be causing it.
A friendly doctor suggested it could be due to the antibiotics I had taken, anxiety, hormonal changes, or even my diet. His top suggestion? Eating more mustard. Seriously? I couldn’t believe it. He also referred me to a gastroenterologist, indicating it sounded like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but further tests were needed to rule out anything more serious.
As a full-time mom to a toddler, finding time for that appointment was a challenge. I was anxious about what the GI doctor might discover. What if something was terribly wrong? So, I put it off, thinking symptoms would improve. But then, disaster struck.
I was driving my kid to a playdate when the urgent need to use the bathroom hit me. Driving had become my worst nightmare; the lack of restrooms made me feel trapped. Desperately, I pulled into a Macy’s parking lot, sweat pouring down my face. I considered leaving my child in the car, but I couldn’t do that. I grabbed him out of his car seat, threw him into a stroller, and rushed through the store.
Just as I thought I found a bathroom, it was closed for cleaning. Panic set in. I sprinted to the children’s section, and just as relief was within reach, it happened—I lost control. Thankfully, most made it to the toilet, but not all. Mortified, I threw away my soiled underwear, canceled the playdate, and cried all the way home.
That moment was my breaking point. I knew I had to see the GI doctor. After a series of questions, blood tests, and a less-than-pleasant examination, I was diagnosed with IBS. Essentially, my gut was misbehaving, and no one could pinpoint the reason.
We discussed options, and the doctor suggested an elimination diet. I cut out gluten and dairy for a while. While there was some improvement, it was still challenging. I tried probiotics, but they only gave me painful gas. Desperately, I searched online and discovered the Low FODMAP Diet, a scientifically-backed plan designed for IBS sufferers.
I reached out to a nutritionist who specialized in this diet, and she was a lifesaver. The diet required strict adherence for two weeks, followed by a gradual reintroduction phase. I figured I had nothing to lose.
The difference was incredible. Within days, most of my symptoms vanished. The belly aches and bloating disappeared; I could finally enjoy a normal bowel movement—something I had almost forgotten was possible. I felt a wave of relief wash over me.
With my nutritionist’s help, I learned how to navigate this new way of eating. I could enjoy some gluten, but I had to stay completely dairy-free. It was tough, especially as a busy mom on the go, and dining out became a challenge. But when I think back to those painful days and frantic bathroom trips, I realize that it’s worth it. I’ll do whatever it takes to maintain my health and have normal poops.
Life isn’t perfect, and I still experience flare-ups from time to time. While stress isn’t the root cause of IBS, it can make things worse, so I have to manage it carefully. What I’ve learned through this journey is the importance of reaching out and seeking help, even when it feels isolating. If you’re battling IBS, remember this: what worked for me may not work for you, but don’t stop searching for your solution. Trust your instincts and know that you deserve to feel better.
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In summary, living with IBS can be a tough journey filled with uncertainty and discomfort, but with the right resources and support, it’s possible to find relief and regain control.