Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => Other Health Discussion => Topic started by: Ju Ju on June 16, 2016, 04:04:20 PM
-
I had a follow up appointment today follow up appointment for my hysterectomy and back wall repair op, now over 6 months ago. Because of continuing problems re incomplete evacuation of bowels, l had a MRI done of my pelvic floor to see if there is anything to see, but as I only had it done on Tuesday, they didn't have the results.
The gynaecologist then proceeded to tell me that you could train your bowel to perform on a regular basis, say once every morning. :-\ Oh how I wish! And how? Do I tell my bowels "No, it's not the right time!", as I have an urgent call ( l have had accidents in the past) :o or "No, you have already been today" when I have had to go several times, like yesterday? And do I sit on the toilet on those days when I can't go insisting this when I should and want to go? :o
Now I know IBS is a somatic illness and most certainly affected by stress and emotions, but if mind over matter was the cure, then I would be top of the class! I am somewhat bemused!
-
Didn't you ask ? ::). He would make a fortune if this were true!
"Bemused from Surrey" ;)
-
Poor you Ju Ju! I know after my hysterectomy it took a while for things to settle, but not as long as yourself.
Are you allowed to make use of something like immodium/laxatives short term? I was given laxative pessaries for a while after mine until things settled.
-
The problem was that he is very difficult to understand. I was warned before I first saw him that you couldn't understand him. He's actually usually nice, but seemed stressed today. My appointment was an hour late. And you never think of what to ask at the time. If it turns out that this a rectal problem, I'll be passed on to the bowel lot! My private gynaecologist thought it is caused by low oestrogen, though it hasn't improved with increased dose of oestrogen. We shall see. Meanwhile, I shall just get on with it without stressing.
Cubagirl, I think it's a functional problem. I manage to keep my stools soft with the use of fibogel, flaxseed, prunes, fibrous food and keeping hydrated. Lavitives seem to make it worse and Imodium can trigger off constipation. So I just go with it. But it can make life difficult if I need to keep to a time table., particularly early in the morning.
-
Sometimes constipation can be a lack of food in the gut therefore the bowel has nothing to pass. For me if my bowel is 'slow' it feels full >:( and that feeling can remain even after eventually passing stools. Which makes me reluctant to go far from a bath room ::).
-
;D not in my case! I like to eat!
-
Is it what you eat that slows the system? I find if I don't take my evening dose of ADs and BBs then my bowel opens more easily during the next day. If I exercise more, i.e. walking holidays, I don't need to 'go' because my body has used food as it is designed to: this was true of my dog too, the further we walked the more she ate the less she passed ……. there's probably a message there then ;D
-
I don't take abs or bbs, only inhalers for asthma and HRT. I've had IBS since I was 14 following gastroenteritis at a time of trauma, which is recognised as a trigger, though why is not understood. My GP was concerned when I had severe food poisoning, but I didn't have worsening symptoms probably because I am not depressed, stressed or anxious. With the onset of menopause, as many have found, the symptoms worsened. About 4 years ago, I started having the symptom of incomplete evacuation, so was referred for a colonoscopy, but all was fine. Then last year, it was found that I had a prolapse and rectocele, so we made the assumption that was the cause, as it often is, but unfortunately the problem persists. The MRI may or may not show something. We'll see. As for my diet, I am very aware what I can and cannot eat. I've had a lot of support in that area, particularly when I developed intolerances. Why I sought help last year is because the problem was there, despite having softer stools. It feels like there is an obstruction, though that may be just a sensation. Whatever, it isn't stopping me do things and I'm not stressing. I just say I'm having IBS issues, then people are understanding.
-
The sensation sets up warnings though ::). It's managing the situation that takes time!
-
I don't always have warnings. I might suddenly need to go or I go to have a wee and am surprised I need more than that. And it takes time that sometimes I can't give it. The op isn't responsible for altered sensation, as this was happening before. I suspect the rectocele was incidental and not the cause of my difficulties. But I'm celebrating the fact I had a hysterectomy, as it means I no longer need to take progesterone, which really made me feel ill.
-
My bowel has a mind of its own and if I argue with it I always lose so I just let it do what it needs to. If I stress over it then things get more difficult.
I can go weeks going every morning regular and easy as clockwork then, for some reason it all bungs up and won't co operate. I have a swig from the Lactulose bottle for a few days until normal service is resumed. I try to keep it happy otherwise my haemorrhoids flare up :(
My bowel seems to respond to my emotional health.
-
Yes, I think it does have a mind of its own! And my gut feeling is to go with the flow (all puns intentional) and not add stress. I think if your gut is behaving dysfunctionally, then comforming to a pattern is like telling someone with clinical depression to think positive thoughts and pull their socks up or telling someone in the midst of an asthma attack that they should be exercising more. It's theory, not real. I wonder whether the bowel consultant has a different view.
-
I wish it were as simple as your doctor seems to think Ju Ju. I have IBS, and it's the diarrhoea element that I suffer from. It's a nightmare, especially when trying to not to stress !! Travelling has to be addressed like a military operation and I could write a travel guide on location of toilets in my home town . I do use Imodium for occasions when I have early appointments or travelling, just to get me from A to B without worrying where the toilet is.
Coincidently I was in Sainsburys and in the book section I saw a book called Gut,by Giulia Enders. "The inside story of our body's most under-rated organ ". It's brilliantly written managing to combine humour with amazing informative research and information. It was only about £4. I would highly recommend it.
-
When I gave birth 35 yrs ago I had a big breech baby naturally and had an episiotomy that went right through into my rectum :o. It was stiched up very nicely I was told but left my rectum resembling a big baggy sock >:(
From that day on I got leakage after bowel movements because any poo left in the rectum cannot be forced out as I have no muscle tone due to the baggy sock!
Ibs on top is quite an interesting combination ;)
I did see a bowel surgeon who said unless I am unable to leave the house due to uncontrolled bowel leakage they will not operate as they reconstruction can cause much worse problems than I have.
Not something I feel I can discuss in polite society but on here where anything goes it feels good to be able to mention it. It also helps to know I am not alone with bowel problems.
I hope your bowel troubles settle down as I know just how much it impacts on life :-\
-
Thank you Evelyn and countrybumkin,
I shall look into your book recommendation, Evelyn. You really need humour.
And countrybumkin, thankyou for your post. There is so much embassessment about bowel issues.
I am so scared of having an accident in public. I did go through a stage of having to plan any trip via the toilets. I didn't tell anyone at the time for ages, but when I mentioned it to the GP, he was great. When I developed food intolerances it had this effect. I have also had to deal with OCD issues with regards to faeces, but I do manage this quite well, mainly by working round it or accommodating it rather than fighting it. Somehow that makes it less big. The gynaecologist did mention the possibility of surgery as well as other treatment, depending if or if anything is found. As I could hardly understand him I couldn't understand much, but if there is a problem I will be passed on to the 'bowel' team. I have met the consultant,.......who was absolutely gorgeous and very kind, and um quite young.......! ;D
-
Oh the joy of having your nether regions explored by some young good looking male Dr :o :o
My poor aunty who is now 87 yrs old developed womb prolapse when she was 81 and was sent to have the ring inserted. She said she got a gyny that could have been her great grandson easily. Because of her age she has lost all her body hair including pubic hair ( not a thyroid problem) and she said I could almost read his mind thinking why at her age does she shave down there ;D ;D
-
::)
Ju Ju - I don't understand the 'not understanding' the gynaecologist bit :-\
-
I think JuJu could not understand him because of his standard of spoken english or thats what I read it as.
I am alot more bolshy now with Drs that speak very bad english and will keep saying sorry I didn't understand that or if a nurse is in the room and after repeated requests to say again will ask them what was said.
The bolshieness comes with age ;D
-
He shouldn't be in Practice in the UK - all medics are supposed to have good quality English for that reason!
-
I like the sound of your aunty, countrybumkin!
The gynaecologist/surgeon is a lovely man, well loved and respected by the nurses. But he is very difficult to understand due to his accent. I don't think that his English is at fault. A friend who worked at the same hospital, recommended I asked for him, as she said that if anyone had to mess about with her nether ends, she would rather it was him. I was warned that he was difficult to understand. Added to this, I have little background knowledge of what he was talking about to fill in the gaps. There is a limit to how many times you can ask him to repeat something and still not understanding. If I have to be referred on, then it won't be an issue. I only take issue with the suggestion that you can easily train your bowel to behave, after a lifetime of dysfunction. If only it were that easy.
-
Still - it's important to have good communication skills and it sounds like he lacks something ::). Apart from a Glaswegion accent and finding that I listen to the accent in Northumberland rather than what is being said to me ;D ……..
-
Does anyone get queasy when the bowel is slow :-\ ?
-
Not then, though I can feel pretty rubbish. I can feel nauseous and shaky, if I make up for not being able to go for a few days and then do it all at once. It's as if my body goes into shock. Blocked a loo once! Taking fibogel stops it being so extreme though. TMI information?
Have done some googling and think I understand more what the consultant was trying to tell me, so it's a matter of waiting for the results of the MRI. Sometimes Dr Google can help and reassure. Also saw the lady who recommended the surgeon. She was able to give some further information that was helpful, because of her medical background.
-
I had a rotten morning :-\ - after having a slow bowel for 8-9 days, this morning it decided to empty at 7.30 …….. of course, today we are away from the house for 3 hours with no loo access >:(. I managed a round of toast with a cuppa but had to revert to my emergency med to stop the churning tummy and bowel ……….. :'(
Home now so OK again.
-
Oh poor you! Do you think there is a psychological element here? Like I get up really early prior to having to go out and can't go to the loo until I go out the door, then sudden urgency! The number of times I have been late. So inconvenient and embarrassing, though I do apologise saying IBS issues if appropriate. Trouble is planes don't wait, nor can you run through security and immigration! (Thinking of recent problems. I did survive without casthrophe.)
-
It was psychological as we were parked on the side of the road ……… portapotty to hand ::) once I had taken the emergency pill I was able to relax a bit. Home now ::)
Having emptied in a rush my lower belly then feels floaty and queasy :-\
-
I won't tolerate a slow bowel for more than 2 days, 3 at the very most before I give it a helping hand with a swig from the lactulose bottle. Having suffered the most horrendous constipation for 2 years before my under active thyroid was diagnosed I would never, ever go back to that misery. Plus if I don't go for a few days the pressure causes my haemorrhoids to give trouble and bleed so I keep myself gong one way or another.
-
I wish it was slow transit that was the problem, but the surgeon mentioned rectal intussusception, rectal prolapse, which often goes hand in hand with a rectocele, which I have had repaired. I wish I had understood what was going on ages ago as I could have asked for help before it got this bad. At least I have been sent for the correct test. The trouble is, it is embarrassing and actually difficult to describe and talk about particularly to a male consultant.
-
It shouldn't be embarrassing though …….. that's why cancers get a hold. Think, years ago it was embarrassing to talk about periods or menopause ::) …….. it's a pity that when we are embarrassed that we can't visit with a GP we don't know!
-
Next year we get our bowel tests as we will both be 60. I was concerned to discover a lot of people, especially men, do not return theirs as there is 'nothing wrong'. :-\
-
I've just received mine.
-
We always do ours.
-
how often are we sent them once we are 60 CLKD?
-
every 3 years?
-
:thankyou:
-
OK!
-
Hi all,
I am glad you have brought this subject out into the open, lol ;D It's actually the source of one of my biggest meno problems - anxiety. In short, terrified of having public accident, have hinted at this before. It had become so bad that I was too scared to leave the house, even though usually nothing happened if I stayed at home. IBS symptoms from time to time, nothing regular, gurgling on the left of stomach and lots of wind, cannot pinpoint a cause, no other health issues. A few months ago I told the Dr everything and this triggered diagnosis of anxiety/ depression and ADs. She also checked the 'gurgling' and said it was normal for 'ladies of my age' and likely to be early hiatal hernia or similar.
I've been doing really well on the e-cit, been away on hols, into a few towns (with precautionary Imodium as advised by Dr) and out to restaurant even (would never eat out). Doing so good that even told Dr that I was much better at last review. Almost the next day I was worse. Stupid anxiety back, wind, gurgling, IBS - culminating in a couple of urgent near-misses. I don't know what to do, I read somewhere (damn google) that IBS does not start in later life but it seems that it has for several ladies on here and this is a common problem. One of you mentioned it being 'somatic' - I looked that up, it seems to suggest it can be caused by stress/ anxiety and not a physical gut issue. I know I am really stressed at the moment because of this referendum (we live abroad). I am getting so fed up. The IBS 'events' seem to be preceded by what I can only describe as adrenaline surge - a sort of rush like butterflies and panic in stomach area and feelings of a flush, hot/ cold sweat type of thing.
Does any of this make sense? :-\
-
Somatic is not the same as psychosomatic. I was told that asthma is also a somatic illness if that gives you an idea. It is real and physical, but bouts can be triggered by stress. I have had IBS since I was 14, following a gastroenteritis at a time of trauma. This is not unusual apparently, though they don't understand why people develop IBS after gastric illnesses if they are also depressed, stressed etc and may not if emotionally stable. A few years ago, I had a serious bout of food poisoning and my GP was very concerned I would have worsening IBS issues, but I didn't. I went back to my normal. I was not under stress. IBS worsened for me with the onset of the menopause, which is not unusual. Hormonal? Or lack of?
Like Bettyboo, I am afraid if having accidents. Because I have in the past......on the way to an interview for eg! I cope by taking a clean up kit, knickers and if I feel really unsafe, I wear a sanity towel. There you go..... ;D now you know what's in my handbag! I try to not let it stop me doing things and I try not to have early starts, so I can take my time. I'm lucky that I left depression behind gradually after leaving the situation that caused it!
-
I couldn't have written the post any better Bettyboo or Juju . I am exactly the same, never went abroad for over 12 years , just in case ! I find if I am in control and can plan everything , then Im fine, knowing where toilets are etc helps enormously. I find imodium excellent and use it as a preventative if Im travelling so I know I will be ok until I reach my destination. Ive managed two holidays this year, and felt so happy I could do it. Its a dreadful thing to have. A real taboo subject. I was investigated thoroughly but no reason found. Its definitely linked to stress on my part.
-
Thank you so much for replying Ju Ju and Evelyn.
It is so good to know you are not alone with this. You are right it is a taboo subject - my OH won't discuss it, just talks in riddles if I try to explain why I don't want to go out and accuses me of being in a mood. I never intended to tell my Dr as I was too embarrassed, but I was so upset when I was talking about the not going out and depression symptoms it all came out (no pun intended). My fear stems from an incident a year ago when I was ill in a restaurant when we were out for a meal with friends. Everyone was really kind, but I have never been out for a meal with other people since, and always try to avoid going out if I can. I got to the stage of not being able to go to a supermarket but I can do this now. Strangely, I am better if I go on my own.
Yes, Ju Ju I have a kit in my handbag and I take preventative Imodium - Dr suggested it, says it is OK and my second line of defence is Tena pants - OH has no idea about them, keep them hidden.
I don't know whether to go back to Dr again, but only a couple of weeks ago I told her I was getting better, and she said my stomach was 'normal'. I'm trying to work out what the trigger is. Hot weather makes it worse, I can't tolerate anything over about 25, and I'm sure it's got something to do with the virtually non-existent cycle ???
-
The problem I have now is getting the stool out, regardless of consistency. The IBS was a contribution to this problem, but is not what is causing this problem now. I realised that there was was physical problem after following good advice from the bowel consultant. It was thought that the rectocele was the cause, which made sense, but now repaired and healed, the problem continues. It is being taken seriously. I am awaiting the results of the MRI.
At least these days there is more help in managing IBS symptoms. Years back, it was check there was no sinister reason for symptoms, then being sent on my way with no advice, just that it is 'only' IBS.
I am fortunate to have a DH who is very understanding and accommodating, particularly since I put embarrassment aside and explained what was going on. But travelling was a worry this year, as going to the loo can take ages and sometimes, I have to go back and forth. We did a lot of driving, 2000 miles, staying in hotels and booking ahead. DH left that to me so I made sure my needs were met. But I did it and coped. I do find saying I have IBS issues if need be, without going into any details, helps. It is surprising how many people have approached me with similar problems. We are not alone!
Oh by the way, when I had the accident, I went home, sorted myself out and rang to say I had had problems on the way. I arranged a new time and got the job!
-
Hello ladies.
I also have gut issues and anxiety certainly plays its part for me. Since eating a high fibre diet with lots of nuts and seeds, fruit and veg etc I've noticed that any gas is gentler and does not always lead to a toilet visit.
Bettyboo - you mention e-cit, is that a typo or do you smoke electronic cigarettes? I ask because tobacco smoking is known to have a calming effect on the gut so if you have recently given up regular cigarettes that may be a change of circumstances that you are reacting to. Obviously cigarettes are generally injurious to the health and it's thought that the benefit may come from the nicotine present in the tobacco leaf. I think I'm right in saying that other dark green leafy vegetables also provide nicotine with the benefit of other nutrients as well. Maybe eating lots of spinach is the healthy way to go.
Wishing you well and sending hugs.
K.
-
I also have a radar key, and a " can't wait" card. Haven't had to use either but again, knowing I have them! Mornings are my worst time, sometimes I would have three visits to loo within an hour of getting up. My husband is very understanding, and so patient which helps enormously , manys a journey I've had to get him to pull in urgently at the most random of places so I can use the loo ! Some big cities are notoriously lacking in facilities and I've had to use hotels and department stores. Edinburgh and Oxford being some of the worst offenders. I remember urgently needing to go in Waterstones in Edinburgh but the toilet was only accessed via a key pad and the number was only available via a receipt after purchase. Luckily another customer was just leaving and let me in.
-
I remember desperately hunting for the loo in selfridges, Oxford St, London. Talk about poor signing, even though I asked for directions. Perhaps we should start a campaign for more (clean) public loos nationwide and clear signing! Big shops have no excuse. I was impressed with the quantity and cleanilness of loos in the USA this last trip. Apart from when we were in the middle of nowhere and when they were closed for cleaning in one store! The cleaner did let me in though. Must have looked desperate. Maybe she didn't want to clean up after me if I had an accident! ::) I did look at portable loos you could fit in a suitcase, but decided that was over the top and I needed to keep space for shopping! :D
-
e-cit is usually ecitalopram, an anti-depressant ;-).
As for the bowel working 'better' after exercise, I thinkt he medical term is 'tenesmus'? If I'm slow in the morning when my bowel feels full, I find that gardening, going for a walk can trigger the mechanism required to 'empty'. This was true of my dog, after exercise she would go properly, also, the more exercise she had, the less pooh she would pass. Probably because the body was using up her food intake correctly.
I've been this evening :bounce: now if I could find out what I ate 2/3 days ago ::)
-
I nearly got caught out this evening whilst I was walking the dog, got back just in time.......... I think it was the gravy I had with my dinner earlier :o :o it's not easy is it girls.
-
Maybe it was the exercise! As CLKD mentioned! Sometimes the best seat in the house is the throne!
-
Morning Ladies
It's so good to know I am not alone. Thinking about this I realise that it is not as recent a thing as I first thought and my bowels have been 'unreliable' for several years, in fact it probably goes back to the start of the peri-meno thing, at least four years ago.
I'm OK again today and not much 'gurgling' so I am wondering if it's diet-related. I was interested in Kathleen's comment about eating more vegetables, nuts and seeds. I am actually a vegetarian but I recently analysed our diet and realised that we don't eat enough fruit and veg (barely making the 5-a-day). I've tried to improve this and keep a check on the protein levels but I have a bizarre sort of fear that if I eat more fibre it will make me worse. I really need to get a handle on this before brain gets out of control again with health anxiety.
Do you think sugar could make it worse? Earlier in the week OH bought me a massive pastry and a 12-pack of Snickers (cheap date). I have to confess eating more than one Snickers during the day and this kicked off a lot of gurgling. Or another thought I had was eggs? I don't eat much dairy at all - soya yoghurts.
Yes, CKLD you were right, I meant escitalopram. I take 5mg x 2 plus 40mg propropanalol. That thing 'tenemus' is not quite what you thought - it's the urge to go even after you have been, common with IBS-d. I started to look it up but came across lots of scary conditions so stopped. Am not supposed to Google stuff like that ;D
Thanks BB :)
-
Diet certainly plays a big part with me Bettyboo, to be honest, though, I think I'm better with less fibre. When I take my fruit, yogurt, wholemeal toast etc in the mornings Im running about three times. However, if I just grab a banana and cup of tea I seem much better?
Sugar I think plays havoc with IBS, and interestingly Cazlikins mentioned gravy. Its a big no no for me, I read its to do with whatever is in the thickening agent, same with cream or ice cream. Definite NO NO's
I exercise fairly well with walking , not so much at the minute as I have a painful back,but again, need to make sure Im somewhere close to a toilet in case I get the " rush" Not always convenient (scuse the pun ) but exercise certainly moves things along.
-
I wish that more villages had public loos :-\ ………..
I wish that more towns had public loos :-\
I wish :'(
-
Oops! The prunes have worked! Too well!
Sugars not good, but I find the sugar substitutes more of a problem, including xylitol, which was had a very obvious effect when I tried. It bothers me that sorbitol is an ingredient in so many things including medication. It's in Fibogel, but that really helps me. I tried alternatives, but they didn't do the trick.
Dairy, particularly cows dairy can be a problem for people. I can tolerate goat and sheep dairy, but keep to cheese only. Sainsburys sell coconut yogurt with cultures added. It's yummy, so yogurt is back in my diet.
-
How many prunes and for how many days :-X ???
-
Hmmm... a snickers bar allegedly contains 7 teaspoons of sugar; I *may* have eaten more than one. :(
Ladies, you may have given me some clues. Xylitol I can't touch, nor aspartame. I will have to pay more attention to the labels and stop eating cheap chocolate.
-
Hello ladies.
I came across the work of Dr Michael Greger who advocates a ' whole food, plant based diet'. His reasoning is that consuming whole foods eg eating an apple rather than just drinking the juice, means we get all the phyto nutrients we need plus the fibre which feeds good bacteria in the gut. I eat a salad every lunchtime, vegetables every evening and snack on fruit and nuts, that way it's easy to get more than your five a day and I do feel better for it. Sadly I'm not very good posting links but www.NutritionFacts.org is the site to go to if you are interested in finding out more.
Take care ladies.
K.
-
Hey, whaddya know, the link worked!
Hope it helps ladies and yes, sugar is a big no no because it feeds the bacteria we don't want!
Take care.
K.
-
Thanks. If we go back to the Cave then it was grazing on raw fruits, grasses, eventually grains with some meat which someone decided to cook: can you imagine the size of the skewer required :D. I am lazy in that when I feel well I eat what is to hand: pizza as well as freshly cooked chicken with veg./rice/pasta ……. today I'm struggling because my body is hungry :-\ but I don't fancy much nor do I know what to reach for.
Anxiety makes my bowels active :-\ or knowing that we are likely to travel on a motorway ::)
-
How many prunes and for how many days :-X ???
The eat by date was imminent! So I finished the pack. That'll teach me! The good thing is it was easy and my tummy feels flat and I have lots 2lbs since yesterday! No I'm not obsessive about my weight, but by the time you have weighed yourself the flashing light on the shower has stopped and the water is warm. We all do it! :D better than twiddling your thumbs!
-
As himself tells me often, the weight of a good pooh might well be 2-3lbs :-X
By the way: as an aside - what do you read whilst on The Throne?
-
Whatever's to hand, current book, suduko etc. Most definitely not the motorbike mags that DH reads! We have the map of the world in the toilet room, plus travel books. A friend came out one day declaring that we had the world in our loo! :o
-
Husband always takes something in to read. I am not in there long enough, I just perform and come out unless I am bunged up then I take in my electronic word search game :)
-
Word search
Crosswords [suits my mood >:( ]
Light weight books - the tome I'm currently reading is too heavy ;D
Nintendo when camping ::)
-
Husband always takes something in to read. I am not in there long enough, I just perform and come out unless I am bunged up then I take in my electronic word search game :)
Me too, being mother of four children, and now two grandchildren, there wasn't ever any time to rest on your laurels !!! In out in out became second nature and I'm the same still. ;) ;) :D
-
I once read somewhere that if you suffer with piles then is is not a good idea to sit for too long as the gravity, along with the pressure, can pull them down and make them worse
-
I remember being told that standing to pooh eases problems ………. don't know if I can trust my aim though :-\
-
Me too! Oh how I wish I didn't have to spend so long on the loo. Unfortunately incomplete evacuation means exactly that. It would be very messy if I didn't! ??? But generally, if you don't have my issues, you shouldn't sit too long. Best to get up and move around.
-
Does a warm bath help Ju Ju, not always practical but I remember the babies evacuating with a change of temperature ;)
-
;D no bath sadly! Nice thought though.
-
When our chickens were egg bound they were held over a bowl of heated water ;D
-
;D I remember sitting on a pink potty with warm water in it to encourage a poo! Must have been over 4, cos of the the surroundings in my memory. I wonder if it worked!
-
We have a Porta-potty in the camper but it ain't very comfy and we don't use it only to do pees at night. However …….. :D. We had a blue hard plastic potty which was equally as uncomfy!
-
May I ask a personal question ……. :-\ when my bowel is 'slow' or I feel impacted, my bladder needs to wee more often. Is this 'normal'? My health anxiety has been up whilst we were in Yorkshire :sigh: [see my bladder thread]
-
May I ask a personal question ……. :-\ when my bowel is 'slow' or I feel impacted, my bladder needs to wee more often. Is this 'normal'? My health anxiety has been up whilst we were in Yorkshire :sigh: [see my bladder thread]
Think its quite normal CLKD, ( Hope I have those in right order!) when we think of our anatomy the bowel and bladder are in very close proximity, so if your bowel is full, it will eventually put pressure on the bladder giving your the urgency feeling. Sometimes I have the reverse problem >:(
-
Whilst travelling on Monday [see my thread about bladder], needed to pee then had pressure on the abdomen which made me queasy and the need to pee again …… I had to stop twice coming back earlier today :-\
-
Irritable bladder is certainly a well recognised symptom following an irritable bowel episode. I am always prepared for that!
Hope it didn't spoil the trip.
-
It did :sigh: : need to pee + heaviness in the belly button = off my grub :-\
Home now. Bathroom + grazing = …………. :-X
-
Had some good news today. The results of the MRI of my pelvic floor showed that I didn't have a rectal prolapse, so won't need another op, thank goodness, but it did show that I have difficulty fully evacuating (that's what I've been complaining of all along!). I'm being referred for physio, having just been discharged from physio following my hysterectomy. How many more exercises will I have do with my nether regions?! Just reread that! No saucy answers!
-
;D Bottoms up!
-
Thanks for the update.
What has been suggested, anything that might help me :-\
-
That's good news that you don't have to have surgery.
There was an article in the Mail about putting your feet on a small stool to help go but maybe you've already tried that?
-
I know a friend found that standing helped empty the bowels more naturally …….. also, OAPs are advised to have raised toilets so that they don't sit down too low or suddenly - perhaps we are in general missing a 'trick' in how we position our toilets? Maybe on a dias ………. literally, a 'throne'?
I suppose I bob down so that I am not seen in the ditch :D
-
Has anyone else read The Gut by Giulia Enders? It's a fantastic description of how our digestion works and is very humorous too. I'd recommend it to anyone who is interested in how their inner workings.. work! According to the book squatting is definitely the best way to go to the loo. There are 1.2 billion people in the world who squat to evacuate their bowels and they have almost no incidence of diverticulosis and very little problems with piles. The downhill skiing pose is the most favourable!
Taz x
-
Reminds me of the first time I used a squatting loo for a wee in Asia! Fine if you are wearing a skirt, not see easy with trousers!
-
I use my grandsons step so my feet are elevated and bend forwards, which does help.
I haven't received the follow up letter yet. I'll let you know recommendations from the physio when I get an appointment, which I hope will be sooner rather than later.
I now have this vision of me in skis posing over the loo, Taz!
I remember the French loos when I was bundled up in motor bike gear when I was younger. Not compatible! DH got impatient when I insisted on hunting for a modern clean loo, where I could disrobe.
-
What I learned from the pooh physiotherapist after my rectocele repair.
1. Learn to relax the pelvic floor as well as tightening. http://www.pelvicphysiotherapy.com/release-exercises/ Pelvic floor dysfunction is interesting and possibly causes a lot of problems with incomplete evacuation etc.
2. Cultivate a daily habit. By going at the same time each day, your body is more ready to respond. So go after breakfast.
3. Use peristalisis to help create an urge. Peristalsis (the muscular contractions that move your food through the gut) start at the top with swallowing. Make the most of this by having proper meals rather than grazing. Make the most of waking up in the morning by having a good breakfast - plenty of chewing and swallowing and eat something that helps things move through (porridge, prunes etc ;) )
4. Diet - eat plenty of soluble fibre which is found in beans and pulses, porridge, fruit and veg (which as an aside is a good part of the cholesterol lowering diet :) ). Non soluble fibre like bran dries out if your have slow transit times, like peat based potting compost, and causes a catch 22 situation, whereby it slows your transit down further. Check your transit time by eating sweetcorn and seeing how long it takes to get through (I rarely see it again ::) ) Slow transit will result in food taking longer to go through the colon and dry out, slowing transit further. Drink plenty of water.
5. Anticipate constipation by taking laxatives or other action when you know it may happen. (eg if I miss breakfast, or restrict fluids on a long journey, or reach the progestogen tablets on my hrt). The dried fruit cubes were suggested as a natural solution, but they do contain a bit of senna which gives me pains, so I use movicol or kiwi fruits.
6. Try improving your bacteria collection by taking acidophilus capsules. (I have since found it is proven to be better to feed the bacteria you have on lots of raw stuff as too much of the bacteria in capsules and yogurts get digested before they get there.)
7. This is a good example for sitting on the loo position with explanation http://www.squattypotty.co.uk/. You can do your own thing with boxes/steps etc.
Personally, I found glycerine suppositories a help in getting things started post op and when things have gone too far. I find movicol a help and kiwi fruits(some people are allergic to these). I don't recommend senna or anything with bisacodyl as they can cause a lot of pain in some people - I spent the early hours trying not to faint on the bathroom floor with one that was supposed to deliver gentle overnight relief once >:(
-
Crikey ;D - we're a Mine of info on here :thank you:
If you think of puppy training, one puts it out to 'go' as soon as it wakes and immediately after feeding it ;)
Taz - is the book still available? Haven't seen it in "the book people" list ……. perhaps I'll look in old book shops. Or maybe they don't talk about their piles :-\
-
Thank you, dahlia girl. That's very interesting.
I do some of this and I do manage to keep my stools soft most of the time, using fibogel, flaxseed and prunes, but sometimes I am too successful, and to do enough to keep several people happy if you know what I mean, then I don't go for a day or two. I would love to know how to cultivate this regular time everyday. I go when I have to, hopefully in the morning, and often with great urgency. If I use laxatives, I find I have to keep doing small amounts throughout the day and sometimes night. You can't tell your bowels that it's not the right time! I'm wheat intolerant, so don't go that route and I think I'm allergic to kiwi fruit as I had a very frightening reaction ( face, mouth and throat swelling) years back. I wouldn't want to try without medical supervision as I have read it could be far more serious if I did. I eat veg, though not a lot of fruit. Pulses, with caution as :hotflash:. You wouldn't want to be near me! It will be very interesting seeing the physio for this. I have done very well with the normal pelvic floor exercises, succeeding in reducing bladder weakness.
-
How do you eat flaxseeds? I tried years ago but couldn't crack them even with a stone on the patio ::) Chickens enjoyed them though!
-
Oh you make me laugh! You either mill them yourself or buy them ready milled in packets that have to be refrigerated, which is what I do cos I'm all for an easy life. I buy them either from the supermarket or a health food shop. Not cheap though.
Oh dahlia girl, what do you mean by feeding bacteria on raw stuff. Do you mean sprinkling on raw food? I do take capsules. Thanks for taking the time on writing all this info. I will certainly share any useful info when I go for physio.
-
I don't think that bacteria 'feed' on raw foods …………. :-\
I tried milling flaxseeds but they were too hard. We tried everything ……….. pestle and mortar, stones on the patio cave-man style; I did buy 'bergen' bread but it didn't keep long enough, tasty though …….
-
Try an electric mill. Less muscle power or cheat like me and buy ready milled. Can't stand the racket of the mill first thing in the morning!
-
dahlia girl, what do you mean by feeding bacteria on raw stuff
Eating plenty of raw fruit and vegetables (presumably salad?). They are called prebiotics (rather than probiotics which are the capsules etc). You can buy stuff called prebiotics, but really you only need raw fibrous foods. I saw a BBC 2 programme where a group had been given only raw veg (cabbage and stuff too) and they had the best outcome in terms of the bacteria that came out the other end. Rather than putting more bacteria into your system that die, you eat this food and it gives the bacteria in your gut the right sort of fibre to work on.
I read somewhere that they like leeks, but I have no proof of this, sorry ;D
I have oral allergy problems (related to hay fever) and raw things can be a problem sometimes
-
Can you begin a separate thread on your oral allergy problems? I have problems right now :-\
-
OK :)
-
:thankyou:
-
dahlia girl, what do you mean by feeding bacteria on raw stuff
Eating plenty of raw fruit and vegetables (presumably salad?). They are called prebiotics (rather than probiotics which are the capsules etc). You can buy stuff called prebiotics, but really you only need raw fibrous foods. I saw a BBC 2 programme where a group had been given only raw veg (cabbage and stuff too) and they had the best outcome in terms of the bacteria that came out the other end. Rather than putting more bacteria into your system that die, you eat this food and it gives the bacteria in your gut the right sort of fibre to work on.
I read somewhere that they like leeks, but I have no proof of this, sorry ;D
Thanks! Now I understand! I like raw veg!
I have oral allergy problems (related to hay fever) and raw things can be a problem sometimes
-
Thanks! Now I understand! I like raw veg!
That is good ;D I like to think of them as my pets ;D They need looking after.
-
More useful info, thanks.
Co-incidentally, I saw the gut book mentioned today in the supermarket. It has just been published here in France and is on its way to the best-seller list. I didn't buy it though as had OH with me :o You can get it on Kindle for £3.79 so I will be buying it soon. (I seem to use Kindle for books I don't want anyone to see me reading, strange that).
Most of you seem to have problems with constipation, whereas as I am the opposite, and even then a lot of it is in my mind or hormonal. I mentioned before on this thread my fear of going out and not being able to find toilet. Well, today I went to a new huge supermarket never been to before without taking a precautionary loperamide and had something to eat whilst out, so feeling pleased with myself.
-
Oh well done you! It's such a great feeling to achieve :medal:
When I go somewhere new I find the loo first ::)
-
The Gut book is brilliant. I urge(!) everyone to read it. So funny and so informative.
Taz x
-
;D
-
Received the letter from the consultant. He says he thinks I might benefit from electrical stimulation. The mind boggles! :o
-
I can't think of a funny response ::) but batteries springs to mind :vibe:
-
;D
-
I'm queasy again after a toilet visit earlier >:(. I had fresh mangoes this week ::) ….. they are tasty and sweet and juicy but that doesn't negate the awful queasiness after ……. bugga
-
mine have come to a complete standstill and just will not move :(
-
Please read the gut book, its very interesting. When me and my siblings were small we were all told to Poo in the morning before school and as we hated the school loos we all did this . To this 50 years plus day we all now go to the loo before showering in morning , it happens automatically. I have done this with my children and they do the same so am sure some of its mental - I was fine until I dieted and that upset the routine and then I got piles , however with a lot more raw veg back on track. :D
-
Gut book on the way!
-
Please read the gut book, its very interesting. When me and my siblings were small we were all told to Poo in the morning before school and as we hated the school loos we all did this . To this 50 years plus day we all now go to the loo before showering in morning , it happens automatically. I have done this with my children and they do the same so am sure some of its mental - I was fine until I dieted and that upset the routine and then I got piles , however with a lot more raw veg back on track. :D
Gut book is so informative, and makes reading about this particular area of the body , very interesting and fun too ! I got mine in Sainsburys, think it was only about £3
-
I am fine and regular unless my thyroid levels are low, which I think they are at the moment as other things point to this being the case.
I learned to 'hold on to it' from a very early age as I was hoiked out of the toilet if my father wanted to use it. On the other hand, once he had left for work I was made to 'sit there until you've been'. Some times I didn't 'go' for up to 5 days at a time. The less I went the more I got told off and the more I got told off the less I went.
-
Please read the gut book, its very interesting. When me and my siblings were small we were all told to Poo in the morning before school and as we hated the school loos we all did this . To this 50 years plus day we all now go to the loo before showering in morning , it happens automatically. I have done this with my children and they do the same so am sure some of its mental - I was fine until I dieted and that upset the routine and then I got piles , however with a lot more raw veg back on track. :D
Gut book is so informative, and makes reading about this particular area of the body , very interesting and fun too ! I got mine in Sainsburys, think it was only about £3
That's a brilliant price Evelyn considering it's such a new publication - I haven't seen it cheaper than £10!
Taz x
-
Maybe pass the 'gut' book around ………… ;)
When I get into my warm bath as the water hits my bottom I feel queasy :-\
-
thanks for the recommendation. I have ordered the gut book from The Book Depository for £4.34 :)
-
Just bought the book in Sainsburys for £3.99. Will Taz receive any commission? ;D
And just had a plate of raw veg. Suits me as I'm lazy! Now going to have something naughty........ :P
-
It's such a good read. Sounds unlikely I know but I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
Taz x :sunny:
-
I read your post about the book the gut the other day. So I just received my copy today!! Cheers Jan x
-
Bought the Gut Book on Kindle yesterday for £3.72 and already read 25%. It is a great read in a fab writing style (glad I did not buy it in French at supermarket yesterday as I don't think I could cope with the translation, lol).
Already I understand so much more about my gut and worrying less about it today. It is just like I understand much more about my brain and anxiety since I read the Ruby Wax book. Knowledge is power.
-
maybe we could do with starting a MM library where we could share our books :)
-
There is a book club thread babyjane and a list at the top of the page (under "more") for books recommended by members?
Taz x :)
-
What's the Ruby Wax book called? Sounds interesting.
I had a good gut book called Gut Reaction by Gudren someone. It does help as I followed parts of her regime and it did help with the IBS at the time.
-
It's not the same as swapping books though which would mean giving away any anominity that we want to preserve.
I was a member of 'gut reaction' many years ago ……..
-
Wombat - the Ruby Wax book I read is called Sane New World. I found it helped with the anxiety, as does Headspace meditation.
I've read the Gut book now (I'm a fast reader) and found it very informative. I'm now considering ordering some pro/prebiotics from Healthspan. I used to take quite a few supplements (Vit D, magnesium) but stopped a while ago to see if they were making me worse. I reached no conclusion about that apart from that a lot of it is anxiety-related. I recently started to eat chia seeds as a friend recommended them, digestion has been more 'stable' in past few days and joint pain less.
-
Was away for long weekend, unfortunately had some issues and had " an accident" when out for a walk . Luckily I was only five minutes from hotel, but far enough away to do damage ! I'm assuming it was a reaction to something I had eaten at breakfast as I had little or no warning such was the sudeness. I got myself sorted but the distress and embarrassment stayed with me a lot longer. Woke the following morning with bladder discomfort which turned into rip roaring cystitis . Luckily I had Dmanoose with me, which helped, combined with analgesia. Thankfully the worst was over by the time I was due to fly home due to all my self help methods. I'm home , exhausted , but had overall a great break.
-
so sorry you had to go through this when you were away Evelyn. I find being out of my usual routine plus change of water and air is guaranteed to upset my IBS in a similar way. I remember even now the horror of feeling my bowel churning during dinner in the restaurant of a posh hotel for my 25th wedding anniversary (15 years ago), the food had been rather rich all week. I got up to leave the restaurant and had to walk the full length of the room with no control over the wind that was resulting (more like a force 10 gale) from my bowel with every step. I was mortified as I was sure everyone could hear and I could not bring myself to go back into the restaurant. :-[
-
Well done on coping with it Evenlyn - this is one of my nightmares so I'm not sure I would have been able to deal with it at all!
In The Gut book the effect on the bowel due to change of location, time zones, diet etc. is explained really well. We really don't appreciate how our "gut brain" is affected by so many things but what we have to remember is that the gut is trying to protect us - always - it is our friend although I often think that mine is definitely an enemy!!
Taz x
-
I have just received my copy of this book in the post this morning :)
-
Enjoy it babyjane!
Taz x
-
Oh Evenlyn :bighug: ……. were you alone?
-
Oh Evenlyn :bighug: ……. were you alone?
No , my husband was with me, but once we got back to our room I encouraged him to go for a walk to let me sort myself out with some modicum of privacy . Thankfully our room was in a separate area from main hotel, the thought of having to go through the main foyer, would have been too much.
-
Oh Evelyn, that brings back memories of an accident on the way to an interview. I had to get a taxi home. My friend had an accident while flying. So mortifying! Poor you. But don't let this stop you doing what you want to do.
I had noisy wind on Sunday and my little GS thought it hilarious and copied me.... At he has some control!
I was advised to drink bottled water when travelling around, even where the water is safe. And never have drinks with ice etc. as it can so easily be contaminated.
-
I not only drink bottled water and avoid all ice, but I also clean my teeth using bottled water too, as I did find that even such a small amount could cause problems.
-
Yep. Don't touch salads and wash any fruit skins with bottled water before peeling . Drink water from bottles that you have opened as some Hotels re-use them taking tap water ………….
-
Evelyn - well done for going away and coping with this. It was an accident such as you describe (though while we were out for a meal with friends) that virtually grounded me for a year. Anxiety took a hold and it was only recently when I fessed up to the Dr about the fact I was terrified to leave the house/ walk the dog/ go shopping that I've been able to start tackling the issue. In fact, Ju Ju's story has helped me, too.
Ladies, while we are on this delicate subject of the BMs, can I ask your thoughts on the connection with adrenaline surges? I've started to get these surges when I wake up. So, I wake up, lie in bed trying to summon up the will to get going and a surge starts in the pit of my stomach. it's like the feeling of 'butterflies' or the nerves you get when apprehensive about an event, a performance or something. Within minutes (or less) I have to dash off to the toilet, often several times. These surges are often accompanied by a sort of flush, a hot sweat all over usually starting at feet and working up. I'm also getting night sweats again at the moment.
Some days I don't get a surge and the BMs are OK, other days I do and it's like IBS-d. I've been trying to work out if it is something I eat ( I thought it was cheese, but not sure) but now wonder if it is hormonal? Not sure what I can do. I take my BB in the morning at breakfast so when the surge occurs they have 'run out' though I thought they actually stayed in your system for days. I wondered about splitting the dose like CLKD does, might that make a difference?
-
I'm fortunate not to suffer from adrenaline surges, but have seen a lot of posts on this forum about this, so I would suggest it is hormonal related. And makes sense that it will affect your BMs. In my case so many things do! Dairy products are a problem for many IBS sufferers. I was advised by a very good nutritionist to avoid or at least limit dairy products. I eat harder goats cheese in my cooking as apparently this is easier to process. My DD and GS are both allergic to dairy products, not just lactose, and the immediate reaction is very quick and explosive! (For my daughter dairy affects her breathing as well, so maybe her body is very efficient in rejecting a potentially dangerous allergen) So you may be right about cheese as well.
-
Probably hormone fuelled adrenaline surges = the runs. It's the flight/fight response. If you watch a bird when it flies away scared, it lets pooh go. Sheep when startled often do a wee before running away [oh what a sad Life I lead ;D] - puppies when scared will let go ……. however, knowing that this is a normal reaction has never stopped the awfulness of the physicality for me.
When I was menstruating regularly I would get 'the runs' 10 mins. B4 a bleed began, even if I wasn't due a period. Definitely hormonally induced and it meant I couldn't book a trip around the 5-6 days that a bleed was due; particularly a road trip :o. Even now when travelling on the motorway my bowel is upset, in case the loo is a long way through the Service Station complex [which they usually are ] which = queasy stomach :-[ which then spirals to worrying about spoiling the holiday :'(
I have found cutting my 40mg BB in half for morning/evening use has helped get rid of the dull headaches. I also know that if I don't take a dose my head gets 'strange' feelings, kind of woozy ……
I try to 'go' in the morning and now that we are eating Pakistani mangoes daily my bowels are really eager to empty, anytime from 6.30 a.m. so I need to sit quietly after to avoid going into panic mode.
-
Do all mangoes have this effect or just Pakistani ones? Keen for tips to keep things flowing if you know what I mean!
-
when mine slow down it slows down and nothing will make any difference. I have porridge with prunes and Linwoods ground seeds and goji berries for breakfast, eat a banana and a pear daily and at least 2 or more fresh veg or salad with my dinner plus sweet potatoes, brown rice, spelt pasta and processed foods are a big no no. I also drink enough to keep well hydrated. This is my normal diet and yet sometimes my bowel gets a right strop on and others it throws a tantrum then it will go back to smiling sweetly so I can only presume it is all psychological or hormonal based.
-
When you slow down, it takes longer to go through the colon, which is the part of the bowel that takes the excess water out. So it takes more water out, and you slow down further. Catch 22. ::)
My condolences to those who have accidents. :( I have managed to have have complete bladder emptying accidents and perfomed a complete choral work in damp boots, but at least it is easier to hide. ::)
-
Mangoes are good for keeping things moving. http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/soluble-fiber-mangoes-5414.html
I can't tolerate much fruit or veg since my hysterectomy as they don't stay long in the system! I really miss raspberries and strawberries. Apples are a definite no-no unless I peel them first which does help. Peas, beans, carrots all upset my tum. I reckon it's the lack of fruit and veg that's raised my blood pressure over the last year.
Bowel accidents are often caused by weak sphincter muscles - the internal one lets waste through into the "holding bay" and the external one isn't strong enough to keep the door shut. Pelvic floor exercises can help with this but it does need proper diagnosis.
Taz x
-
Oh Taz how awful. I would miss my green veg in particular freshly podded peas - straight in, no cooking ;D
Pakistani mangoes are sweet, very juicy [ remember Terry Wogan suggesting that they are eaten in the bath ;D ] and have a short growing/Import season. I don't like the Indian varieties as much and don't bother buying other types as they are too fibrous and chewy.
In generaly nowt alters my bowel actions except anxiety !
-
Thanks ladies, your kindness and understanding has actually made me quite emotional, but in a nice way, if that makes sense. I live in UK and was holidaying in Scotland so no alteration in diet that would account for it. I had had a very bland breakfast, fruit, yogurt, followed by poached egg/toast so can't understand what the trigger was. We were traveling to a wedding the previous day and I had taken Imodium as a precautionary measure, but had had a lot of food and drink over the previous few days so perhaps that could have been the reason.
It reduced me to tears, humiliation and total loss of dignity. However , I normally can plan and cope well so I'm not letting it get to me. I've had numerous investagaitons ( friend is a colorectal surgeon) and nothing sinister ever showed up. I've had muscle tone stimulus tested too, it's not great, having had instrumental delivery of first child with third degree tear, plus three further pregnancies .
Oh well, just have to adjust. I'm currently coping with the cystitis brought on no doubt by the " accident ". Isn't life fun ;D
-
Any bugs in the bowel can be transported during a mishap so maybe have a chat with a Pharmacist re treatment, no need to go into detail …….
That amount of breakfast would be too much for me ::) particularly when away from home, a round of dry toast is about all I can usually manage. Eggs don't suit me at all :-\
-
Hi Evelyn
Did you take the precautionary Imodium the day before, ie the day you travelled? There's nothing wrong with Imodium and I often use them in these circumstances as a precaution, with my Dr's consent - in fact I think she suggested it - but I sometimes find that the day after there can be a bit of a knock-on effect as you have effectively slowed the gut down whilst still eating and then it goes back to normal again - a bit different from their usual use for a diarrhoea attack when the gut would be emptier, IYSWIM. Don't know if anyone else finds this.
I'm not planning to leave the house on Monday as I've got events that will require a precautionary dose this afternoon, tomorrow morning and Sunday >:( Though I will try without this afternoon as I did manage to go to supermarket the other weekend without taking any. (BTW if you've not seen my posts before this is all due to the health anxiety which is in part due to an accident which was due to being ill - if I went without taking them I would probably be OK but now my stupid Brain won't let me >:().
-
Yes Betty, I did take them the previous day, transport to and from the wedding was via coach , plus I was worried I might need to go during the service, so had taken Imodium to give me peace of mind. I'm used to having frequent bowel motions, but this was on another level, there was absolutely nothing I could do to " hold on" as it was so sudden. ( apologies if TMI )
-
This can happen with Immodium according to my friend who uses them quite a lot but has to juggle with whether she will be at home for the day or two after using it. You get a "backing up" effect and then it just has to all come out eventually. Not everyone gets it and not every time. The bowel can rule our lives!
Taz x
-
One thing I had to watch out for was food on plates that had been washed with industrial dish washer stuff. They are supposed to put one load in the machine of the tablet/powder per day, but some people just keep adding & it leaves a film on the plate - like shellac. It isn't a good thing for your gut - at least not mine.
I stayed somewhere for a week & always insisted on washing the plate by hand & rinsing it that my meal was going to be on - same with the cup etc. It solved it as I'd stayed at the same place previously & been plagued with the runs.
I now have ulcerative colitis & do often have to rush to the loo, but I aways know where the loos are if I'm somewhere new - first thing I find out, just do it by second nature now. Terrible that a lot of public loos are being closed - what sort of country are we living in when the shut public loos? A bug bear of mine.
-
If 1 has a 'bug' then it will come out even if 1 uses Immodium, it's the bodies way of getting rid of dangerous germs. If it stops the churning though I would say 'go for it', but not every day or the whole system will be catching up at inopportune moments ::)
-
If 1 has a 'bug' then it will come out even if 1 uses Immodium, it's the bodies way of getting rid of dangerous germs. If it stops the churning though I would say 'go for it', but not every day or the whole system will be catching up at inopportune moments ::)
I would never take them if I knew I had a bug, that's the worst thing you can do, I only use them when I know finding a toilet is going to be awkward, especially when travelling .
-
I knew every Lay-by on the A5 for years: from Holyhead downwards ;D
-
Currently, my BMs are like the English weather, sometimes 4 seasons in one day. Well I start at one end of the Bristol Stool chart, touch base with perfection in the middle and finish at the other end all in one BM!
-
And I thought that was the only one like that, Ju Ju!
Evelyn - nothing is TMI on this forum :o I had exactly that problem in a restaurant whilst out with friends last year, I wanted to die I was so embarrassed and it was an hour and half drive home.
Have you thought of Tena pants as added protection? I do use them to provide extra reassurance though I have to admit they have not seen 'active service' so capability untested.
I failed today. Had to take a preventative pill. Was accompanying OH on a hospital appt (for him) but I was far more nervous than he was even though he was having camera down throat. I was in the toilet taking Imodium the minute we got there, gut churning away. It's not like the place didn't have enough loo's either. I'm always worse when he is with me...
-
You did survive though? Did the pill help and you DID NOT fail! You tried but needed to settle your stomach, no different to eating when hungry !
When does OH get the results?
-
If you can you should eat at least a couple of hours before going any where, so that it can be left at home - where it's easier to dash to the loo - if that's at all possible.
-
Trouble is, I often don't 'want' to go until I hit the M1 ::) …………
-
Oh CLKD I do love your advice. You are so right - I survived! In fact, I survived 'the incident' last year and my friends still talk to me ;D and I survived yesterday.
Nothing conclusive found with OH yesterday so more bloods and a scan next week. Here in France you tend to get the results to take home with you. There is much more the sense that the patient is in charge of their own health, you have your own folder of notes and test results to take to appointments and they take copies or scan in. Like we will get the blood test results and then take them to Dr rather than other way round, though Dr gets a copy. I had a scan for fibroids and the radiologist pointed them out on the machine before printing off copies.
It is interesting that now OH has a problem (swollen glands and tiredness) he has a realproblem, whereas I was/am just suffering from moody middle-aged women's sulking, apparently ;)
-
Of course he's deeply involved with his symptoms but has heard yours so many times ::). I like the idea of having charge of our notes, might make Medics pay more attention ! I know that maternity units have done this here for years but in general the notes remain the property of the GP/Hospitals.
-
I'm not sure I want to be in charge of the rather heavy, tatty file, kept together with sellotape that follows me around from hospital appointment to appointment! New cover and a trolley might be necessary! ;D
-
Oh - are you what we referred to as a 'large' patient then ;D: that is, someone who has been through all the Specialities over the years ::)
-
;D
No, not gone through many specialities! I did have a tough time health wise as a child, the odd hiccup with breast cancer scares and more recently, asthma complications, gall stones and hysterectomy, but.....! I find it embarrassing. Perhaps it would be interesting to see why there's so much paperwork there! Do they keep everything in these files from birth? At least the GPs notes are on line! I think I would run a mile if they were still in a file. As it is I get called in for meds reviews and asthma clinic, which I consider more for them than me!
-
When I worked in the NHS patient records had to be kept by Law for 5 years. Then they went onto microfiche - remember that - I think X-rays were kept for 7 years. Unless patients were 'regulars' then notes would be split into several files. To be carried around when said patients were in Clinic or admitted ::). Along with blood/urine results from various tests over the years and X-ray reports ……… no one thought of a trolley for them to transport between Clinic/Ward ….
GP handwritten records and now on computer should be kept for Life. That's where all our histories are kept including Consultant letters etc. to keep the Surgery records up-2-date.
The Medical Records can be useful for children/grandchilden etc., which is why adopted children should have their medical histories travel with them.
-
What you mean there might be more than one file on me! :o
Thanks for the explanation.
-
;D ………
-
My medical records start around age 15, when my first family doctor retired. All history prior to that were stored in his memory :-X
A few days ago I read that pineapple was good for the digestion and gentle on the stomach. From last night's experience I'd disagree. Anyone else?
-
Pineapple should not be eaten on an empty stomach and some medications can interact ::). Any fruits eaten in excess can impact :-X
-
Feeling jaded this morning. And somewhat sorry for myself! Late last evening my stomach started becoming extremely noisy, with loud toxic wind. No chance of sleep and in sympathy with DH I got up and watched some stuff on tv. It was 2.00am before things calmed down and I was able to sleep, only to wake at 6.30am, when I was able to have a BM. It takes so long to do a BM, regardless of consistency. First part easy, then takes ages to complete, even with diarrhoea. There's often no sense of urgency or relief at the end. It was bad enough coping with IBS without this. I'm still waiting for a physio appointment. I hope it helps. It's really making an impact on my life now. I try to avoid going out too early in the morning, as it can be stressful. I'm now feeling stressed about going on holiday with my whole family. DH is brilliant and very accommodating, but I can't bear people waiting around for me. It's easier if I can be left to get on with it. We will have a full house? Feeling rather tearful about it today, as it feels as if things are getting worse. Thanks for 'listening'. Not expecting any solutions.
-
Getting Old - Pinapple isn't great for my gut, even juice can really upset me. SO i avoid.
JuJu - do you have a formal diagnosis, because it's possibly something you should see the doc about? May have missed if you have, forgive me.
-
Thank you, Sparkle.
Marty. Yes, I originally complained about the problem a couple of years ago. Had a colonoscopy, but nothing found. Blamed on IBS and I followed advice given by bowel consultant. Managed to achieve good consistency of stools, but problem got worse.....incomplete evacuation. Went back to GP and found I had a rectocele. Had the repair done and hysterectomy for prolapse. That was 9 months ago. The problem has not improved so the gynaecologist/surgeon referred me for a MRI of the pelvic floor. He was looking for prolapse of the rectum, but fortunately I haven't got that. But the MRI clearly showed the difficulty I am having and the treatment for that is physio. For which I am waiting for an appointment. It's been a while since I was referred.
-
Do you think you could go back to GP and try & hassle up the physio, it sounds very stressful? You need to be shown how best to manage your condition & you seem to be getting left - which is happening more & more due to NHS cuts - I think.
-
Sorry to hear that this is becoming a nuisance! I would ring the physio and see if there may be a 'missed' appt., i.e. someone not turning up or cancelling at short notice. At least you would be able to discuss initially what the protocol to achieve evacuation would be ……..
I have to sit on the loo some mornings for ages ::) - I feel the need to 'go' and eventually my bowel decides to empty …...
-
Diet, drinking enough and exercise obviously helps to a point, but it seems this is as much a mechanical issue beyond all that, which is why I need physio. I seem to altered sensation as well.
Yes, CLKD, if I haven't heard by the time I get back from my holiday, I'll ring the physio to see where I stand appointment wise. What a lovely job......re-educating bowels! Not one that was mentioned when given career advice at school!