Help at breaking point
Hi long post im afraid. The last 2-3 years suffered from alternate constipation and diarrhea. Stomach pain and cramp mostly left hand side of stomach. Lower back pain. Days of sudden diarrhea with only seconds to get to bathroom. At times blood and mucus along with diarrhea. My record stands at 17 trips to bathroom in a day. Ive been almost house bound since this started. Ive removed stuff from diet but nothing really stands out as a cause for this. Had a colonoscopy 2 years ago diagnosed with diverticulitis. From what ive read diverticulitis would not affect me the way i am. Should also suffered from depression for last 20 years.
Thanks dicky
Sorry to hear you're suffering. I know the feeling. My record for bathroom visits in a day is 30 but I was wondering if you have been referred to a gastroenterologist? If not, ask your GP to refer you to one that specializes in IBD. I would also request another colonoscopy and blood work and even a calprotectin (stool test). Having said that, I know diverticulitis and IBS (not IBD) present as similar.
Let us know how you get on.
Vern - IBD Team Member
Hi
. Your concerns are certainly understandable and it is good that you are seeking out information. I want to share with you this article form our editorial team on symptoms: https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/symptoms. I share Vern's thoughts on seeing a gastroenterologist. They have three years of additional training and certification designating them experts in gastrointestinal conditions and "It also qualifies them to perform certain exams and procedures that general physicians don’t, and to interpret the results:" https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24198-gastroenterologist. If you see a gastroenterologist this article on the diagnosis of IBD may also be useful: https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/diagnosis. Hoping you can get some answers and relief soon. Please feel free, if you like, to keep us posted on how things are going and to ask additional questions. Best, Richard (Team Member)
