HELP ME PLEASE!

  I have been diagnosed with IBS but the cause is really unknown
  i can control the no. of bowel movements by taking over the counter antI-diarrhea medication this helps a bit, but i still get  episodes once the medication has worn off, i get the most terrible pain in my bowels and tummy and back, i sweat, almost faint and feel like i may die. When i take the medication i get really bad headches, but i have to take it or i can't make it through the day, especially if i have to go out. I also have Mitral valve prolapse, which is worse when i have these bouts. I feel terrible with or without the medication, i feel tired, sick, i have a headache and no energy.
  DOES ANYONE PLEASE know if there are any other medications i could take .
  Thank you.
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Dear AA,
I assume that your diagnosis of IBS was made after the completion of a workup that excluded the other conditions that can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain.  My suggestion for therapy is to increase the amount of fiber in the diet.  This can be accomplished by taking more salads, high fiber breads etc as well as by taking commercial preparations such as Metamucil. Taking the fiber will provide more bulk for you stool (therefore, less liquid and less frequent)and reduce the pain.  If the diarrhea was till problematicI would continue the Imdoium, but hopefully at a lower doasage.
This information is provided for educational purposes only.  Always consult your personal physician for specific medical questions.
HFHJSM.D.-rf
*keywords: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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