Stress, grief and IBS

[Beckybecks]

I've had IBS for many years. Always anxiety related. But despite our current situation I haven't had a flare-up for many months now.

I lost my best friend to cancer 10 days ago and was just congratulating myself on how well I coped with the loss when bam! the IBS has struck.

Bloating, gas, pain and explosive trips to the loo.

Even though I know what it is and even probably what's caused it, I can't seem to control it and the anxiety that comes with it.

I'm drinking lots of water and living on rice but nothing seems to work.

Anyone have any coping tips for me please?

[jarmummy123]

Hi

Have you tried buscopan or mebeverine?
A friend of mine prefers distractions IE gaming apps and adult colouring books.

[Beckybecks]

Thank you. Unfortunately neither of those medications seems to help me much.
Distraction is a good idea and I'm going to try to do just that.

[Librella]

I’m so sorry for your loss. Grief can definitely impact our ibs! Maybe try some deep breathing, or a body scan meditation to sit with where you feel the grief in your body. Sounds kind of woo but it sometimes helps me with a flare. Chamomile and ginger tea too!

[Beckybecks]

Thank you. I've tried the body scan meditations in the past for anxiety and it really does seem to help. I'll try your suggestion

[JulieJay92]

i started lopermide from dr in october and has helped so much x

[Bittersweet05]

I understand what you are going thru. Do you feel any better? I lost my mother in law Nov suddenly. I was very stressed from work and planned on retiring end of December. I have since done this. My anxiety is thru the roof. My ibs is flaring up and wine has given me gastritis as well. This last week has been terrible. I Still have a nagging pinch in lower right side for over a month. I worry about everything and all this doesn't help. I second guess if retiring was the right thing to do...but work was crazy busy and they expected us to work 24/7 to get the work done. My husband doesn't understand at all. I love this forum to read other people struggling as well.