IBS—Change from -D to -C

Posted by jackiem95 @jackiem95, Feb 20, 2021

Has anyone else experienced a change from IBS-D to IBS-C? After about two years of the D, I have now changed to the C. I have no explanation for this and of course doctors don’t either. I had learned pretty well how to manage the D stuff with low FODMAP diet but now am having trouble with the constant constipation and experimenting (not very successfully) with the related OTC products suggested by doctors to treat it. Still following the Low Fodmap diet. Anyway my basic question is: Do the same foods and ingredients (eg fructose, polyols, oligosaccarides etc.) that I had been avoiding to prevent diarrhea now cause constipation? Doesn't seem logical— but then I guess nothing much about IBS is logical! I have been tempted to eat a nice big serving of pinto beans with guacamole to see what happens.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Digestive Health Support Group.

rashida | @rashida | Feb 20, 2021

I have suffered from IBS and constipation for many years. Ten years ago I started taking psyllium husks (in Canada I have found 454g bags of unflavoured psyllium husks at a natural foods store, cheaper than name brand Metamucil) and I have no problem with constipation. I started with 1 teaspoonful in 8oz. water followed by another 8oz. water, and since 2011 have worked up to 2 tablespoonful in 8oz. water followed by another 8oz. water. Still suffer from IBS but the attacks are not so frequent; at least I don’t deal with constipation! You could take laxatives and stool softeners but I’ve read your bowel becomes dependent on them. Psyllium is fibre which is good for you, too.

Erika | @erikas | Feb 20, 2021

@jackiem95 It sounds like you were finally controlling your IBS symptoms. Now your symptoms have changed for no obvious reason and you are trying to find ways to manage these new and almost opposite symptoms.

Below I have linked Mayo Connect discussions. You may wish to scroll through the posts for information.
- IBS-D https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/ibs-2/
- IBS sufferers – MRT and LEAP ://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/ibs-sufferers-mrt-and-leap/
- Constipation - 5 steps to keep things moving https://connect.mayoclinic.org/page/take-charge-healthy-aging/newsfeed-post/5-steps-to-help-manage-constipation/

Members like @cindychesler @cindychesler @oceanone @cim37343 @elle1233 @artist01 @jackiem95 @Pookith85 @srobison may be able to support you or direct you to resources.

I understand that anti-depressants can be used to control symptoms and there are other medications as well that can supplement the dietary changes. May I ask if you take medication for IBS?

thull | @thull | Feb 20, 2021

Will all my digestive issues, the gastro had me taking Senokot for an extended period of time and during my last colonoscopy, they could see some changes in the lining of the colon that are from laxative use. So my thought is find something as natural as possible that helps, rather than laxatives

jackiem95 | @jackiem95 | Feb 20, 2021

In reply to @erikas "@jackiem95 It sounds like you were finally controlling your IBS symptoms. Now your symptoms have changed..." + (show)

No I do not take prescription medication for IBS.

linn1 | @linn1 | Mar 30, 2022

Any ideas other than medicating?

John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Mar 31, 2022

In reply to @linn1 "Any ideas other than medicating?" + (show)

Hello @linn1, Welcome to Connect. There is another discussion that you might find helpful --- IBS sufferers – MRT and LEAP: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/ibs-sufferers-mrt-and-leap/. I did find this information on the topic of treating IBS without medications.

"How do I heal my IBS-C gut?
Feast on fiber-rich foods: Enjoy high-fiber whole grains, veggies, nuts, seeds and fruit. The fiber in these foods will keep you fuller longer, but it's also good for your gut. Don't be afraid of fat: Choose healthy omega-3 fats, like wild salmon, sardines, flaxseed and seaweed. Sep 23, 2020"
--- 9 Ways to Help Tame Your IBS: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/good-for-your-gut-9-ways-to-tackle-ibs/

Have you tried any diet related changes to see if they help manage the symptoms?

Amanda Burnett | @amandaa | Apr 1, 2022

Hi @linn1, I wanted to add my welcome and let you know that I moved your post to a discussion about IBS-C so you can connect with other people. What treatment have you tried so far?

linn1 | @linn1 | Apr 3, 2022

In reply to @amandaa "Hi @linn1, I wanted to add my welcome and let you know that I moved your..." + (show)

I have IBS-C. I went for 19 years w/o a flare-up. Recently, because I couldn’t seem to break the cycle myself, went to my Gastroenterologist and a PA gave me samples of Trulance. After about one week with days of severe diarrhea, determined I could not do this. Then, gave me samples of Linzess, lowest dosage. After 24 days doing this and needing to plan my entire life around when I took the pill, when I ate, and when it was going to work and whether I could make it in time w/o accident, I determined that was not going to work for me. Therefore, have decided to go back to HeathersIBS site and start doing Acacia powder once again, moderating diet, mint teas, etc., etc. This worked for me in my past so am giving it another try. Really do not want to be on medication. Would prefer a more natural approach.

donnam7900 | @donnam7900 | Aug 17, 2022

I have ibs-d. I take Colestipol for diarrhea and it helps but the side effect of horrendous stomach pain and cramps is terrible. I take Dicyclomine but it does not help. Any suggestions

loveofdogs | @loveofdogs | Aug 18, 2022

In reply to @donnam7900 "I have ibs-d. I take Colestipol for diarrhea and it helps but the side effect of..." + (show)

Hi I’ve been dealing with IBS-D for years. I removed gluten from my diet which helped a lot. I also have a Benefiber bar each morning. I know coffee aggravates my stomach so I try to drink chamomile tea instead.
Hope this helps. It seems like a never ending battle. I hope u start feeling better.