Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Hi, everyone-

I just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Kristin, and I have had IBS for 14 years (I am now 33.) The first time I had an attack was 3 weeks after having been date-raped in college. I have battled it ever since. I have been hospitalized for weeks at a time due to IBS, only to be handed a bottle of Xanax (which I later became addicted to, so no benzos for me.) I have made midnight runs to the ER for pain relief. The pain is debilitating. I can't even stand up when it hits. God forbid it hits while I'm at work. I have battled depression since being diagnosed, as well as a host of other diagnosis' for everything from fibro to lyme disease. I am tired of labels, and just want to be able to function.

I can go months without symptoms, and years with, and right now I'm in the midst of attack after attack. I am a teacher and school just let out and it seems I am having post-stress IBS. I know there are foods that trigger it, but for me, all it takes is an emotionally stressful situation to bring it on.

I finally decided to get support mainly because I worry that this illness will cost me my job (the stress is terrible) as it is already costing me precious time with my husband and two young children.

I'm sure I'm not posting anything you haven't heard, but I suppose I just needed to vent to those who understand!

I have read all over the website, and am going to order Heather's book.

Thanks!

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