Docs on Wed for stomach problems - what can I expect...???

[babyignoramus]

I've suffered with what is probably IBS since I was 7/8 - so over 20 years. I went to my GP a few years ago when it was quite bad - at the time I thought it might be wheat causing it, and his reply 'stop eating wheat'. Not exactly helpful! I love food and if I'm going to spend my life on a restrictive diet I'd rather it was because I had to, rather than because it might help.

My symptoms are - stomach cramps getting progressivly worse until I'm bent double, followed by diahorrhea (sp?) two or three times. This usually happens in the early evening, although it has been known to happen in the afternoon or the middle of the night. It was at it's worst when I was a teenager, went away completely while I was pregnant (bliss!), and has been back with a vengeance since DS was born 4 months ago. Nothing specific seems to set it off, and I've tried eliminating dairy, gluten and meat with varying levels of effectiveness.

Anyone had these symptoms? What was your diagnosis? I'm determined not leave without some sort of referral this time (different GP) and I'd be grateful for anyone who could advise me what sort of tests I shoudl expect to be offered.

Ta!

[babyignoramus]

Should add that my fingers tend to break out in a really itchy rash when it's bad! They're awful at the moment.

[Plonketyplonk]

Tummy problems can be quite complicated and they would need to run a barrage of tests to find out what's going on. The tests might include stool tests when they take a bit of poo and grow stuff on it, blood tests, maybe some sort of camera test... I don't know anything at all about IBS. I have colitis, which is a bit like crohns, but a different part of the colon.

If you say you think you are bleeding from your bum they will see you pretty quickly. Are you feeling more tired than usual?

I hope you get this sorted out soon. It's miserable not having your health!

[babyignoramus]

hi, thanks for the response. I do sometimes feel tired, but whether that's related i don't know. I've had this problem for over 20 years so don't know any different. I do sometimes have blood but but I think that's more sore bum than anything else! Will mention it though if it speeds things up!

Thanks again for the advice.

[Plonketyplonk]

I hope it all goes well with your gp! If you have any blood loss which isn't piles, they may test for anaemia. Blood loss can lead to tiredness, as can a runny tum(things not getting absorbed...)

I have an aunt with coeliac disease. If your gastro department is good, they'll hopefully find some answers quickly!

[babyignoramus]

Ta Plonkety. Will let you know how it goes.