Living With IBS

After a particularly difficult fortnight, this week I talk about living with IBS, a condition I have suffered from for most of my life. Despite living with this debilitating disorder for such a long time — especially over the last ten years — it never seems to get any easier. I guess I was born to suffer from gastrointestinal issues — it almost feels part of my DNA. Like me, my Father also has the same battles I do. Genetically, we are very similar, and IBS is a negative aspect in both our lives.

This week has been particularly hard, and with a gastritis flare-up causing its own problems, I felt like I was living through hell. The pain was such that I went to the doctor's last week and was prescribed a PPI for the gastritis. This is a medication I have taken before, but stopped before leaving for Spain. I am, of course, mindful of the side effects of this drug, especially after taking it on a long-term basis. For that reason, I have decided not to take it for any longer than a month, until hopefully, I am healed and back to normal.

Gastritis can flare for many reasons. In my case, a short course of Naproxen for my ongoing rib pain triggered the pain I am currently suffering with. Since I had my gallbladder removed several years ago, I have been suffering with gastro symptoms ever since. I did, however, suggest to my GP that I be referred to a Gastroenterologist, who can assess me properly. Making another appointment for that particular referral, which will cost yet more money — and the specialist won't be cheap either; they certainly know how to bleed you dry over here. But you do pay for what you get. First-class medical treatment doesn't come cheap.

I do hope your week has been better than mine. Despite all the ailments I cope with daily, I am well aware of how lucky I am. The niggling discomfort is a far cry from what others have to deal with. The anxiety I suffer with does exacerbate the problem threefold, and for that reason, I understand the importance of relaxation and healthy living. I am gradually changing my diet once again, just as I am trying hard to shift my mindset onto a more positive path. Today I am feeling much better after beginning this short course of medication, and the hope is: I will be feeling my old self in a few weeks — despite continuing to battle with IBS. As my CBT counsellor once told me: 'deal with one thing at a time and don't let everything overwhelm your life.' Well, let's hope I can do just that!

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