Not my daughter or grandson, but then they are intolerant to dairy completely, not just lactose. There is a difference.
I've had IBS since age 14, so most of my life. Symptoms have changed through life. I did go through a very difficult period after a course of antibiotics for cellulitus, which are known to be particularly vicious on the digestive system. I had a lot of pain and diarrhoea. With the help of a nutritionist I found I had become become intolerant to eggs and soya. After avoiding them, I was able to reintroduce them back into my diet after a year. Wheat seems to be a more permanent problem. For the last few years constipation is more of a problem, compounded by prolapse. Yes bloating plays a part and is unpleasant.
The onset of IBS was after gastric enteritis at a time of severe depression. Sadly, the digestive problems have continued, despite being so much happier and less stressed. Menopause definitely made an impact for the worst. I make sure I drink plenty, eat lots of veg etc, and rely on fybogel to keep things moving still slowly,following a bowel consultants advice. I cope as best I can, which is easier now I have retired.
I think the best way I cope is accepting that this is how it is and my digestive system is doing the best it can. I don't get angry with it now. A life coach that I worked with suggested I send my digestive system love. Sounds 'woo woo', but it helps. Don't laugh, but when things are difficult, I talk to my digestive system as if it were a distressed child. In the loo, where I'm unobserved!
