introducing myself

[loves2travel]

Hi all,
This is my first time posting on a forum, but alas, my symptoms bring me here. I am hoping to learn, educate myself, help others if I can, and ultimately make the wisest choices for my healthcare.

I was diagnosed with IBS 10 years ago. It started out rather mild with the usual bouts of stomach cramps and diarrhea and locating every bathroom wherever I went (sound familiar?)

The last couple of years I have experienced more "episodes" to the point that I would be off work three or four days recuperating.  I would place myself on a diet of juice, soups, and jello.

This past year caused me to go to my human resources department (after speaking with a lawyer) and getting what's called an intermittent leave of absence. When I take the days off for IBS, mu work cannot hold those days against me, (which they had been causing me more stress).

A couple of weeks ago, I was told by my G.P. to see a G.I. specialist , who has ordered a colonoscopy and upper endoscopy for me next week. This last week I experienced the worst pain I had ever had along with a new symptom of bloody stools. I almost went to the E.R.  I am feeling a little better , but a little more frightened.

I have been under a lot of stress and pressure at work with my boss. (no compassion there). And wondered if this stress has an affect on my health. Our office acquired a new manager this past year, making life difficult for everyone at work, particularly me. And it seems my health has worsened this past year. Wondered if it was coincidental.

Has anyone ever had to go on disability with this? I would love to keep working, (evil boss withstanding), but I have missed a lot of work this past year due to worsening symptoms.  What has been your experiences with working when having IBS?

[lagoya]

u got it exactly look after u and the rest will follow ,and in the times of flares know deep down that it is ok to rest and reheal---- for your health is the most important asset you own

be good

[loves2travel]

Thank you for responding. I liked your analogy of the pot of milk boiling over.
Even though stress didn't create my problem, I can't help come to the conclusion that it exacerbates my IBS. I do love my work, as it keeps my mind focused on others and not my personal physical problems. I wouldn't want to quit, nor could I.
Like you there are days that I do feel on top of the world, and anytime I get attacked by the IBS, I tell myself, this will soon pass and I will be back to normal again, however that looks.
I have come to the conclusion that I do have to make the wisest choices regarding my own health and well being. I have to take care of myself the best I know how.
thanks for your comment.

[lagoya]

there is one thing about ibs and work ,ibs and social outings ,ibs and life in general and it is ibs don't not care when it strikes ,how it strikes,and why it strikes.i find that one day i could be on top of the world and the next i am battered with pain for no reason---such is the functional disorder is ibs ----------------------it is confusing to say the least
ok stress and its effect on the digestive system --lets say u put some milk into a pot and place it on a stove to boil as the milk is heating it starts to foam now some would take the pot off at this point and the warm milk is refreshing stay with me im gettin there but others forget to take the pot off and the milk boils and suddendly boils over out of the pot and all over the stove clinging to everything and creating quite a mess for someone to clean up----this is the same in the body when the digestive system boils over time and time again from stress as in chronic stress it creates a mess on all digestive organs and in a otherwise healthy person this results in ibs type symptoms.thats all i will say about stress cause it can be a touchy subject.
going to work is important for all reasons not just money altough it is the main reason as a source of income but it is an outlet as well .i have found days where i have to avoid work due to symptoms of ibs but i have worked through a lot of it cause i just have too to pay the bills etc-----
this is a great forum and u will find a wealth of knowledge and support if u need it as well as tips on diet ,supplements etc that work well with ibs.
i hope your tests go well for u and let us know how u get on

take care and keep posted