Monday, February 21, 2011

Answers!!!

I had a follow up appointment with my PCP this morning.  For the past 2-3 weeks we have been trying to find out what is ailing me.  I have had bloodwork, urinalysis, x-rays, ultrasound and a hepatobilliary test.  We have conclusively ruled out many things.  This weekend I began to do some research on intestinal problems since that was about the only thing left that it could be.  As I read through different types, I came to IBS- Irritable Bowel Syndrome.  As I read the symptoms for it, I realized that I had ALL of them.  I started going over all of this with the doctor and telling him how I've experienced this stuff for years, but just thought it was an ulcer or stomach pain. Now, looking back, it all makes sense.  We I have more high-stress or high-anxiety times in my life, the IBS flares up and then I feel just awful. 
 
It is so good to finally know why I feel this way and to know where to begin to start feeling better.

The kiddos are ready for me to be well again also.  During the 2nd trip to the ER, B said to me, "momma you've been sick for daaays!"  It made my heart constrict in my chest.  I don't want them to always remember me as being sick.  I'm ready to feel good and run around and play again!

My dear friend Kelly has ulcerative colitis which is in the same family of ailments.  I'm so thankful to have her to be able to call and talk to about all of this.  She totally understands the stress and pain of it.  Although I wish neither of us had to deal with this stuff in the first place!

I'd love to hear from any of you who have IBS or know someone who does.  IBS support here I come!

*****I had no idea I was going to be featured on FTLOB today!  I normally don't write about my health so much, but I'm so glad to finally have a diagnosis!  Thanks for stopping by!!!***** 

9 comments:

  1. Oh no - I sure hope you feel better soon!
    What a great blog and a cute family you have!
    Coming over from FTLOB!
    Hugs xxx

    http://chrissyinamerica.blogspot.com

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  2. Hopped-over from FTLOB just in time to read your latest.

    I'm glad you have the answer to what's been making you feel so horrible. I'm of the same ilk in as much as researching everything in order to have a more effective dialogue with your physician.

    Just hope you will be feeling better and look forward to a good, healthy year ahead!

    Many Hugs,
    Patty
    http://anothercookieplease.blogspot.com

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  3. Congrats on the feature, but sorry to hear about what has been ailing you. Hope you find a good solution to control it :)
    http://texagermanadian.blogspot.com/

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  4. Hello from Oklahoma!
    I was in the hospital for 7 days with a massive infection in my intestines. When talking to one of the many drs who were in and out of my room, IBS was mentioned several times.
    I was told to "take your symptoms seriously".
    Come see me @
    http://buterflydreamz.blogspot.com/

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  5. Found your blog through FTLOB! I am your newest follower and I hope you'll follow me too! Thank you and have a wonderful day!

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  6. Congrats on your feature! I absolutely love FTLOB, it's my main source of inspiration and finding new wonderful bloggers, like yourself =)

    I often joke that I have IBS ...but I really think that I do! It will be interesting to read more about your symptoms and hopefully this all gets cleared up soon!

    Kym
    travel-babbles.com

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  7. Oh honey! IBS sucks from what I hear! I don't know personally. But I can relate to the part where you talk about you not wanting your kids to remember you this way. Been there. Hoping you feel better really soon! Thinking of you! XOXO

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  8. Thanks everyone from coming by from FTLOB!!! I promise to come and visit your blogs soon! I have to start packing today! Yuck!

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  9. I 'suffered' w/ IBS for years and didn't know it either. Then ended up in the hospital for a week where it was finally diagnosed. I was put on medication which helped TREMENDOUSLY. It made me thirsty like crazy, and I had to really watch my diet -- intense watch my diet for a good six months. The upside was I was planning my wedding durring this time and lost weight b/c of the diet restrictions! I was on medication for a while, etc, and now, 10 years later I just have to be aware that some foods don't agree with me. You should be able to find lists of general trigger foods and then be able to build a specific trigger list for yourself. I was told that it dosen't get more serious -- like it won't become ulcertive whatever. And like I said, it's pretty much a non-issue in my life now. But back then? I totally knew where ALL the bathrooms were in all public places. So.not.good. Hope you're feeling better SOON. Found you through Kate @ Mommy Monolouges!

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I always love hearing from you!