I am very embarrassed to ask this question but,
does anyone else experience diarrhea with their anxiety? If so what do you do to stop the diarrhea? Immodium doesn't help. I have asked my doctors and they tell me just to keep taking the Immodium, but if it doesn't work then why am I taking it?
Anything besides mustard because I do not like mustard it makes me gag?
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Q: Very bothersome intestinal issues with anxiety
Answers (2)
9/23/08 1:46am
Hi cc,
I totally agree with Robbin, it's an excellent idea to be tested for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) as well as to rule out any other gastrointestinal disorder or disease. It's really important to get an accurate diagnosis rather than just assuming it's IBS, however, just in case you have something more serious.
Unmanaged IBS can make people's lives miserable, but it's not a serious disease and symptoms can be managed. Therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), self hypnosis, and relaxation (with exercises found on the CD I made with Dr. Walcutt), and changes in diet can all help. Additionally, SSRI antidepressants can help because 90% of the Serotonin in our body is actually located in our gut!
For help with diet, check out Heather Van Vorous' "Help with IBS" website. To understand the differences betwee IBS and some of the more serious GI disorders, visit Health Central's IBD site.
Regards,
Jennifer L. Fee, Psy.D., Psychologist
Dr. Fee is a Psychologist. Dr. Fee's answers are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only, and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own Psychiatrist/Physician.
9/22/08 11:33pm
I know how embarrassing it can be but my question is to you,Have you been tested for IBS (irritable bowel syndrom )? People with anxiety disorders are prone to this. I was like you, everytime my anxiety took over or I had a panic attack I would do the same thing and otc medicines didn't help. Your Dr. can give you something to stop the intestinal or bowel spasms which is what was going on with me. I hope this was a little helpful. Good luck with everything. Robbin
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By cc— Last Modified: 12/25/10, First Published: 09/22/08
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