Bile Acid Malabsorption

Posted by nychole3080 @nychole3080, Sep 20, 2024

Is anyone out there on bile acid sequestrants for bile acid malabsorption? I had severe, chronic diarrhea for over 15 years (starting after my cholecystectomy) until after IBS diagnoses, several colonoscopies and other GI studies, I finally told a new GI provider that I'd had enough of living my life around going to the bathroom. He prescribed colestid, and my life has drastically improved. Just like that.

At first, I was relieved. When I went for my annual physical at a Duke Health clinic recently, I was eager to say my new diagnosis of bile acid malabsorption. The nurse asked me to repeat it. She searched a bit more. Asked me again. She couldn't find such a diagnosis. My relief has turned into frustration. Why is this seemingly common problem that can SO easily be treated overlooked? After a sleepless night, I tried looking online for more info about it from Duke. I found a study from the 80s. So then I tried the Merck Manual. Nothing. In the UK, it's completely recognized as a disease and even qualifies as a disability. NIH has many studies performed by scientists in other countries showing this issue is most likely much more common with people being incorrectly diagnosed with IBS and IBD. It seems only the Mayo Clinic recognizes this disease. I want to know who all is out there with this problem? A support group for this in the US could be so immensely helpful.

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@beebe

Like you I backed off from using it only when absolutely necessary, I got a scary fecal impaction once from a small dose and was so relieved when the sucker finally dropped out. The cholestryamine is great for recovering from the colonoscopy prep and the flu. Otherwise eggshell calcium seems to work fairly well for me, I am satisfied with a softer poo as long as it is formed into logs.

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Eggshell calcium?

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@jeepgrl

Eggshell calcium?

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Yes, instead of taking calcium citrate for my calcium I take eggshell calcium made from eggs I eat or you can purchase it from Swanson vitamins. https://www.swansonvitamins.com/p/swanson-ultra-eggshell-calcium-vitamin-d3-120-caps
Here is a link if you want to make your own and try it. I always use organic eggs as they have thicker shells and I a higher mineral content (my guess that is why they are harder).
https://www.peteandgerrys.com/blogs/field-notes/diy-eggshell-calcium-powder

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