Urgent toilet.

[Rita1254]

I am not sure what has happeneed to me. I work full time and I am happy and settled in my life. In the past couple of years I have started getting anxious about leaving my house to go anywhere. I dont mean being anxious about going out doors but being scared that I cant get to a toilet on time. I have had a couple of "accidents" which makes me even more anxious. I tried some anxiety mediacation but took myself off it. Even if I am going to work which is a 10 minure drive I have to go to the toilet before I leave and panic all the way to work. If I am going anywhere that I dont know, I have to dose myself up with Immodium - which works but is not a good idea. I used to walk a lot but cant do that now because I might not get back into time. Some time back I used Zenecal which I am wondering whether it was that that started the problem but I am not sure. I am not an anxious person, I am confident but this is very debilitating. I dred to think what would happen if I was in a traffic jam, but then I guess I know exactly what would happen. Can anyone help me please.

[RubyWitch]

A "poop-a-phobe?" I am calling the Dsm IV even as I write this to get this dx put into publication immediately. It will, naturally, be named after you.

Nurse A Go-Go?
Running RN Syndrome?


Anyone else?
Greenie

[nursegirl6572]

Reading your post was like reading my OWN story. This is EXACTLY how I am, and none of my issues are medical in nature....all phobic kind of thinking.  I've used EVERY restroom from my house to work (12 miles)...and the MOMENT I hit a traffic jam...I panic...for that exact reason.  WHY?  Because for everyone with panic, the symptoms are different, and their unique main FEAR varies...for ME, one of my first symptoms is explosive diarrhea....and I always worry about not making it to a BR in time.  A traffic jam is a nightmare for people like us, b/c obviously there is no way to get to a BR.

All I can tell you is if you get a check up and everything checks out okay...then it is time to address the anxiety/panic.  A combo of meds and therapy helped me tremendously.  I'd get to the point where I'd no longer even think about it....when at one point I barely left my house.

Believe me...I know EXACTLY what you're going through.  It's awful...but it is fixable.  I've lovingly labelled myself a "poop-a-phobe".....how fitting, huh?

Hang in there and do let us know how you're doing!

[rilesnic]

I ordered the Panic Away program and according to the author, many people have a fear of not being able to get to a restroom when needed.  It seems to be one of the main phobias of panic attack sufferers.

[mammo]

Definitely try it, because just the anxiety of it happening may just be what's causing it to happen.  I would wear a pad, something protective just in case, plus this would give you some reassurance that if it does happen, you will be fine until you get home.  I have a very close friend who has this so bad, she would not eat prior to going out, knew where every restroom in town was, and was literally miserable. When out together we had to constantly stop for her to "go."  After an accident at the mall she went to a gastroenterologist and it was IBS.  She was treated and has had no problems since. But you should still get a colonoscopy due to your age.

[Rita1254]

Thanks for that but would you think that if I get up the courage and go for a walk, a short walk and if I am OK do a longer walk and hopefully that will solve my problem. On some days I can get to town and am OK but on others I know I can't. But I am thinking that I have to sort myself out.

[mammo]

You really need to see a Gastroenterologist to find out what is happening.  I know IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) can cause this, but you want to make sure that nothing else is going on.  I see you're over 50, have you had a colonoscopy?  We have to start having these once we hit 50.  It's a good idea to get one, the doctor can look inside your colon and make sure everything is okay, and help you with your problem. This problem is causing you anxiety now, and anxiety can cause you to have to run to the bathroom. We always suggest that one get all physical problems ruled out first. If by chance they say it is anxiety, please let us know, there are many wonderful people here to support you and offer advice.  Take care...