I haven't been diagnosed with IBS (yet) but am at the stage where the tests for everything else are clear and all my symptoms fit IBS. My sister is Coeliac and we believe it does run in the family, so it could well be that, but after tonight's attack (just finished) it was too late to call her to ask questions, so I'm hoping a lovely MN'er or two can help me.
My history with IBS so far goes back a few months. In March (6 months after birth of Dc2) I started having very mild cramps when hungry. At the end of April I had my first real attack out of the blue, DH called an ambulance, I thought my appendix had burst, very scary. Second attack a couple of weeks later, went to GP who referred me for blood tests and prescribed Fybogel (I get constipated) but didn't take me seriously even though I was in pain, told me off for taking an emergency appointment.
Third attack was yesterday after asking two sips of lager. Fourth most serious attack tonight, lasted a couple of hours on and off, after having sandwiches for dinner. I've been monitoring my food/drink and am fairly certain that it's wheat setting me off, which makes sense if I'm Coeliac also.
The pain is worse than being in labour and my attacked typically last 15 minutes, I guess the time it takes for Buscopan to take effect.
My questions:
- is this the type of attack you get if you are Coeliac too? My sister's never explained it to me!
- do I need to go to the GP again, is there any point if I know my triggers and pretty much know what it is?
- tonight I dug out my TENS machine and used that, but it was just as the attack ended. Would that work?
- what other painkillers work as well as Buscopan?
Thank you in advance!