Help - Painful Bowel Movements

[kaitlinm91]

For several years now I have been having some digestion & bowel problems. Off and on I go through periods where a few times a week I have an episode of really bad stomach cramping and an urgency to use the restroom. I then defacate for about 20-30 minutes straight but very slowly and very painfully. My stomach cramps really bad during it and stops hurting when I am finished. Sometimes it hurts so bad I start sweating and shaking. My stool is not loose, it is regular consistency but shaped very strangely - almost like a bunch of small strips that have jagged edges. Regular color and no blood. I have tried keeping a food journal and have found no patterns within it. Sometimes when I drink iced coffee with milk I immediately have the urge to use the restroom but then other times I have the iced coffee with no problems.
I really have no other serious symptoms - I periodically have headaches and fatigue. Also, a couple years ago my doctor did blood work and saw I was slightly low on iron. 4 years ago I had a colonoscopy and endoscopy and both were clear. Besides that I am healthy and eat mostly healthy. I cut out soft drinks and fried food a year ago, but still have had these painful episodes. I really need to find out what is wrong - I have started to live my life in fear of having an episode and often have anxiety because of worrying about where I am and if a bathroom is nearby. Does anyone have this problem? Any idea what is wrong?

[Poodletrainer]

I was diagnosed with ibs. I have found that psyllium husk root capsules and probiotics were the answer. Psyllium will bind to control diarrhea and also relieve constipation.

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hi, from the symptoms given its probable you have IBS. Irritable bowel is a disorder, which affects the nerves and muscles of the bowel. This causes abdominal pain and irregular bowel movements. IBS can be very distressing to those who suffer from it, but never lead to a more serious condition. Worrying about the symptoms can create a vicious cycle, making the symptoms worse. Try to combat stress with relaxation techniques or regular exercise. Try to include yogurt in your diet as it is a probiotic which replaces lactobacillus acidophilus (good bacteria) that helps with digestion. See if this helps. Take care.