Horrible IBS flare up. Any suggestions, please?

Callistemon21

MerylStreep

Are you sure it’s IBS and not diverticulitis. There is no definitive test for IBS whereas there is for diverticulitis, which I have.
There symptom's are much the same.

I was going to say the same thing.

Also, have people who've been told they have IBS been tested for coeliac disease? It's found by a blood test but doesn't work if you've been avoiding gluten, so you must eat it for at least a couple of weeks before a test.

Doctors really need to do more investigations because IBS may be used as a blanket term for several disorders which, if diagnosed, could be dealt with differently.

I was tested for coeliac before I could start on the elimination stage of the low fodmap diet.

DaisyAnneReturns

Callistemon21

MerylStreep

Are you sure it’s IBS and not diverticulitis. There is no definitive test for IBS whereas there is for diverticulitis, which I have.
There symptom's are much the same.

I was going to say the same thing.

Also, have people who've been told they have IBS been tested for coeliac disease? It's found by a blood test but doesn't work if you've been avoiding gluten, so you must eat it for at least a couple of weeks before a test.

Doctors really need to do more investigations because IBS may be used as a blanket term for several disorders which, if diagnosed, could be dealt with differently.

I was tested for coeliac before I could start on the elimination stage of the low fodmap diet.

Oh, good.

I wonder if other posters who are suffering have been?
GPs are more aware now than years ago but DD could have been saved from years of suffering had the GP been aware and tested her years ago.

A lot of people who are told they have IBS may have undiagnosed microscopic colitis which is an IBD that can only be diagnosed via a biopsy of the colon i.e. it can’t be seen on a colonoscopy but sections of the colon have to have samples taken and viewed under a microscope to see the inflammation. This is usually treated with steroids , but those with a mild case can be helped with a low FODMAP diet , probiotic such as Symprove and certain supplements. Microscopic colitis can be triggered by medications such as Omeprezole, so it’s important if you are taking these to watch out for symptoms. Ask to see an NHS dietician to help you through the low FODMAP diet and ask whether you have been tested for microscopic colitis.

I have some confidence those who have sought treatment through a doctor would have been tested or can ask for a test. Doctor's tend to like tests.

However, it would be no good testing if you have decided to take gluten out of your diet and your doctor isn't aware.

Equally, if you feel there could be a combinations of issues you could ask about a colonoscopy, etc.

I have similar probs after gallbladder removal. I recommend getting in touch with Biocare on line. My GP not very helpful, Biocare have dieticians who advised taking Acidophilus tabs which helped enormously. Not cheap but have felt so much better. My daughter recommended them to me. They are a reputable UK company, worth googling for more information.
Good luck

I have had IBS since I was 19 and now 77. Onions are a killer for me. Most healthy green veg too including lettuce. I have oat milk, yoghurt and sheeps or goats cheese. Apparently cow's has a different protein. I never have cows milk in anyform. I too take Omeprazole and had my gallbladder out last year. I also get anxious if I am going out somewhere 'just in case' and usually have to dash to the loo a few times
before I set off. I do sympathise.

suenanny

I have had IBS since I was 19 and now 77. Onions are a killer for me. Most healthy green veg too including lettuce. I have oat milk, yoghurt and sheeps or goats cheese. Apparently cow's has a different protein. I never have cows milk in anyform. I too take Omeprazole and had my gallbladder out last year. I also get anxious if I am going out somewhere 'just in case' and usually have to dash to the loo a few times
before I set off. I do sympathise.

Thank you. Sounds quite similar to me. I have found that following the Low Fodmap diet over the past month has helped me a lot but I have to be very strict and scrutinise what I eat - better though than being in agony.