IBS & stomach emptying for Elmiron

[rjyoon]

I have constipation-predominant IBS, for which I take Zelnorm (thank goodness for Zelnorm!). I just recently got a copy of my test results that confirmed my IBS, and they noted that while a normal stomach empties in 75-85 minutes (I'm not sure if they mean totally empties, or something else), they had to estimate mine at 274 minutes. I understand this to mean that my stomach would still have something in it two hours after eating, which is when I take my Elmiron. This makes me wonder if the Elmiron is getting much chance to do its thing, although it has helped some.

Has anyone else dealt with slow stomach emptying, and if so, what did you do about it?

[Silverfox]

Hi Rjyoon,

I do know that low thyroid can cause slow emptying stomach a conditon caused by damage to the vagus nerve, which runs through the stomach. It's a condition called gastroparesis.

I was slow everything, and still have some nerve damage all through my system. I now take Armour thyroid. I saw a neurologist for this problem. I still have some acid reflux, and bowel troubles. Don't know if I will ever recover but my Dr. says the body has a wonderful way to heal. I do find that some good exercise, like a half hour to hour walk daily helps the problems with the slow stomach. I still need some miralax sometimes for the slow bowels.

Good luck in finding the root of your problem.

[rjyoon]

Well, I know it's not thyroid as the doctor has looked at it several times.

[ICNDonna]

I'm afraid I don't know anything about the slow stomach, but I am wondering if you might be able to switch to taking the Elmiron an hour before meals instead of two hours after.

Sending healing thoughts,
Donna

[Traysmum]

hi

I too, suffer from slow stomach emptying. I had several tests and mine takes forever to empty. I do suffer from one of the side effects of Elmiron and had to stop taking it, but never thought about my slow stomach until you mentioned it.

I was diagnosed with a low thyroid 7 years ago, but all my tests at the moment come back clear. That was an interesting point.

[Silverfox]

Hi Traysmum,

I have sent you a pm. Silverfox

[ICchell]

Rjyoon,
I also have IBS and one thing that works well for me is a capsule of Flax Seed Oil daily.
You can find it in health food stores or the pharmacy.It is great for lots of other health reasons too,heart,joints.
ICchell

[ICB]

Look up George's Always Active Aloe Vera. It helps many IBS patients. It is tasteless; I believe the recommended dosage is 2oz., twice a day. It's also fabulous for urethral burning.

Moreover, CystoProtek (www.algonot.com) can be used instead of Elmiron (or in combination with Elmiron). The supplement may block inflammation and protective tissue destruction, while building new connective tissue not only in joints and cartilage, but in the bladder’s GAG layer. You do not need a prescription and can order it from the ICN. CystoProtek® may block the chain reaction that advances inflammation, helps the body build and repair the bladder lining, reduces inflammation, and provides important antioxidants.

CystoProtek can be taken with meals and the absorption rate is 15% to Elmiron's 3%.

If these two dietary supplements don't work, ask your doctor if you can try Gastrocrom. It is great for many patients with IBS and IC.

I suggest that you consult with your healthcare provider if you believe that the information above may be helpful; your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate treatment regimen for you.

The contents in this post are provided for informational purposes only. The contents are not intended in any way to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition.

Best wishes, ICB