Sheila's story
2nd December 2022

I am 62, female, and was diagnosed with IBS in my thirties when I had a busy working life as a housing officer, driving to see many tenants and attend meetings. My initial symptoms were a noticeably bloated tummy, lots of wind pain, but worse of all, was the urgent need to go to the toilet. It was a horrid and worrying few years. It also affected my hobbies. I stopped things like going for long country walks and started visiting more gardens and stately homes as they had easily accessible toilets. I also changed my job to an office based one, as I could not risk being out in the car all day.

I was advised to stop eating all gluten and have done so for over 20 years. It stopped most of the bloating, wind pain and some urgency, but my best decision was following my doctor’s advice to take one or two Imodium Instants every day, and more if I have a flare up, which is rare. I appreciate getting them on prescription.

I am aware some foods affect me quickly—too much salad, pasta, rice or potatoes. With the right quantity I am okay, but too much and it’s a dash to the loo almost on the hour after eating. Awareness of our own digestive system does help.

When I first developed IBS, I kept a food diary, recording what I was eating. It helped to see how much gluten I was having and how often. It was with most of my meals. I now manage my IBS well. It’s so much better with daily Imodium Instants and avoiding gluten 99% of the time.

Fortunately, GF food has improved, and I love to see the free from section in supermarkets growing (I need to avoid cow’s milk too, so love that section). Occasionally I have flare-ups if I eat too much salad or a large, gorgeous jacket potato.

My advice to others who are struggling or who have been recently diagnosed is to explore the reliable advice on the charity’s website, identify your trigger foods and cut down or try to avoid them. I discovered The IBS Network around two years ago. Knowing they were there was a great comfort, and I was very grateful to read information about the condition. I really miss bread and scones, but the free from food in supermarkets has improved—and I do not miss the embarrassment, and worry attached with having to dash off in search of a toilet at top speed.

I’m glad that is no longer part of my life. Have confidence that your life can improve. In the last two years, I have tested myself by having some normal bread and find I can have about one slice twice a week with no effects. This was a very happy discover discovery.

Good luck everyone with your own discoveries.

Please note: Gluten intolerant IBS is rare and most people with IBS will not have to exclude gluten from their diet. It may be the wheat in foods that is the problem.