IBS or anxiety?

[Hlucyx]

I was diagnosed with GAD (Generalised Anxiety Disorder) about a month ago now and have been on treatment in the form of Sertraline (taken every day) and Diazepam (as and when needed).

Recently I've noticed a change in my toilet habits (TMI sorry!) and I was wondering whether the anxiety was the cause of this or whether it could possibly be IBS. I can go days without having a BM but then the next week have to go every day! This is making my anxiety worse because this is not the norm for me. A lot of people have said it could be change in diet but I don't feel as if I have been eating differently to normal? Others say it's due to anxiety but this is where it confuses me as I haven't been feeling that anxious until the symptoms (bloating, foul gas, tummy gurgles urge to use the bathroom) start. Also, I find that the symptoms wear off if I'm distracted which makes me think it's purely all in my head.

My GP told me that IBS can be triggered by anxiety so it made me wonder if it's worth getting a test or something? Sorry if I sound like a total newbie but I'm getting frustrated with the way I'm feeling as I feel like I'm taking a step back with my anxiety issues. Any reassurance would be much appreciated

[jpanied]

This is my third bout with anxiety/depression/IBS.  Belial 1134 is right, get it checked by gastroenterologist, so you can eliminate one source of worry

[Belial1134]

I was recently diagnosed with ibs but my bowels have been normal this entire time. My gastro said it could have been post infectious ibs. I was also under a lot of stress/anxiety  dating back to last week of December so I'm sure that didn't help matters. Maybe it was stressed induced ibs. I'm not sure.

Anyway, I'd recommend seeing a gastroenterologist and more than likely they will want you to get a colonoscopy. That way you get answers which helps the anxiety of not knowing what's going on.

If they say it is ibs, they can prescribe medicine which could help