IC & IBS- knowing the difference

[anxious one]

Hi guys,

I ahve IC obviously and IBS (like most of you probably,) and I sometimes really have trouble telling which is causing my pain. It doesn't help that when one flares the other normally flares also! :rolleyes:

For instance, sometimes I get an enormous pressure on my bladder but then I get wind and think, well that was probably IBS... and I often get sharp pains down into my groin but at the side of my bladder and I don't know if they are Bladder pain or bowel pain... then I stress myself thinking I have an infection or a really bad flare going on, (which in turn makes all pain worse!!! :rolleyes: )

Can anybody relate to this?????

Also does anybody elses bladder flare after a bowel movement?? Sorry for all the gross questions, I'll stop talking now!! :D

Thanks,

sara

[Betsie]

Hi Sara,

I think too many of us can identify with you. It is a not fair combo if you ask me.

For me, an IC flare starts with a more pronounced perineal discomfort, burning during and after urinating and an increase in frequency. My main symptom since getting IC under control is pain, though even that is getting less of an issue. So, when my frequency steps up, it is an indicator...now keep in mind that during my period and ovulation I am apt to experience this much the same.

IBS, which really is not my friend lately is more of an overall twisting, crampy feeling...I am often not sure when it's time to make a run for it, but have an intense pressure that is more abdominal...pressure from IC for me is lower with a puffy belly.

I am not sure if that helps...it sure is a pain in the a$$ if I don't mind saying.

I am not sure, but Dr. Moldwin's book covers related symptoms...I haven't read it for awhile, but it may be a good resource for you. it is available in the bookshopon the ICN if you don't already own a copy.

Best wishes...hope this was a little bit of a help. :)
**********************************************
here is a trick I learned...for IC discomfort...my Pilates instructor showed me this.

Sit somewhere comfortable...instead of cross legged, put feet together heel to heel in almost the same position of cross legged. Let your knees dropdown and just lean into it...it seems to take some pressure off of your bottom and hips and can be comfortable for an achy episode.

I am one who is so tight that if I can do this, probably most can....maybe it can be comfortable for you as well...I do it without thinking when feeling "tight".

[Katrina]

Yes I have flared after a BM. I too struggle with what is causing the pain.....wish it were simple. I gues trying a non prescription Gas med has helped me. If you are thinking constipation is the problem that is an area I have difficulty with. I hope you feel better soon. Wish this all were simple. :grouphug:

[twiggy]

I have the exact same problem! Grrrrrrrrrrrr! I am going out to buy a natural laxative today because the guys in the "Bowel Department" are a bunch of slackers and they are putting pressure on the "Bladder Department." I am thinking, what the dickens is up? No, no one is getting a vacation so everyone get to work. We are part of a team organ parts! Remember, we all must work together! Wish my body parts knew that! Well, off to the store. I am thinking Metamusil (spelling), but will talk with a pharmacist.

[lalarainbow]

Hi,
My Dr and pharamacist both suggested Metamucil and it works for both constipation and diarrhea..The only thing though it makes a bit more gassy then I would like to be... One of my biggest mistakes for gas though was I chew gum alot and I stopped that and that seems better..
~~Pam~~

[anxious one]

:biglaugh: Twiggy, you absolutely cracked me up! That is exactly how I feel at the moment. It is such a viscious circle isn't it????

Thank-you so much for all your replies and feedback, so glad to know it's not just me that goes through this.

I tried Senoket for the constipation but it does NOTHING. Pear juice can work a treat sometimes but not always. I was worried about the colourings and nutrasweet in metamucil... it doesn't flare your bladder?????

Thanks again and hugs to you all,

Sara

[Betsie]

I sure know the difference in the past 24 hours!!! I have both to contend with....grrrrrrrrrr.

I am protesting their activity!!!!!!!!!!!!!!