What to Do??

[SandraCT]

Hey there. I was told I have IBS and it's definitely the consitpation kind. I have been this way for over 10 years and now it's at its worst. If I go once a week, it's a good week. I am trying to eat more fiber and take metamucil. The usual dose of one rounded tablespoon still isn't helping. The pills did not work at all. I think I'm immune to all this stuff. Any suggestions? I did have a colonoscopy and all was fine. I figured if I had a deadly disease, I'd be dead now since I can remember being this way for over ten years as I mentioned. This is driving me crazy though. Someone mentioned flaxseed oil on a previous post. Is that is a pill form? Does it taste yuky? My brother has IBS but he's opposite of me with constant diarrhea. He said I should not eat bran and wheat and things that are not water soluable. I'm not sure if he is correct. HELP!!! Thanks for any info. you can give me. Sandy

[jala]

I had the same symptoms, did the colonoscopy (came out clear), took metamucil and still had problems.

One time, I had diarrhea for 1 year straight and lost 10 pounds (I am already thin). This is when my IC started. All other years I had the once a week kind of constipation.

Mine problem was definitely wheat/gluten related and stopped when I when gluten free. You might try testing for gluten intolerance. See www.celiac.com for more info. That was my problem (and it is hereditary). Jala.

[sleepyangel30]

flaxseed oil can be in softgel or liquid.

[gypsyjoy]

Your brother is on the right track. I too have IBS and have both problems. I have to eat a very high fiber diet. High fiber cereal 8 grams or more every day, fruit if your IC can handle it ( I can eat apples and pears and prunes...I know most people say yuck to prunes but luck for me I happen to like them. I drink a lot of water
this help keep things moving too. I also eat plenty of veggies. Since Jan. of this year I have lost 25 lbs. and will get the rest off to by the way I have changed my eating habits.

I love to walk but I can't get to far away for the bathroon and being on my feet make my bladder very unhappy. But exercise is good for the IBS so I walk around in the year(our yard is the size of a small park).
I also drink metamucil but I do 2 rounded teaspoons in 8 oz. of water 2 or 3 times a day.
I know with my IC I am in the bathrom 40 plus times a day if I drink water or not but by doing so I think I am better off in the long run. Good Luck and you might want to talk to your Dr. about this there is a new drug out for women with IBS...I think it is Zelnorm.
Hugs, JOY