I am sure many of you here know what I'm going through, one way or another. I am not a "classic" IBS; by this I mean that I don't usually suffer from the nasty physical ailments normally associated with IBS, but rather I suffer mostly from the psychological aspects. I would like to ask the other members here if they can identify with some of my experiences. Thanks in advance.
Am I the only one who spends what seems like forever in the bathroom before a trip? Do the words "are you out of the bathroom yet?" or "you're going to the bathroom again?" cause you to feel at once ashamed yet powerless? Am I the only one whose two-year-old has a stronger bladder than I do? Does anyone else dread car trips with traffic, walks in unfamiliar areas, new places in general, and workplace meetings (where it's awkward to leave in middle)? Do these thoughts pop into your head all the time? Are they often the dominant criteria in your decision to go someplace? Do you find yourself investing stories why you cannot go to a particular place at a certain time because so many others simply do not (and in fairness, cannot) understand how you feel? Do the words "c'mon, hold it in, just another 15 minutes" make you break out in a cold sweat because you know that you cannot wait more than two minutes? Do you run to the bathroom before every trip? Does this worry sometimes consume you? Is Immodium AD your favorite trip companion?
These are some of the issues I have been grappling with for years (nine, to be exact). I am an otherwise well-adjusted professional with a wonderful family, but this persistent bathroom/stomach problem continues to dog me everywhere. Yes, I have tried all sorts of GI-related solutions, but nothing seems to help. I am basically resigned to my fate at this point, but I was wondering if anyone else went through or is going through similar episodes. Any responses and/or helpful hints would be appreciated.
Until then, I am
Stuck@home