The Truth About IBS In America

Thank you to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) for sponsoring this post. My opinions and my desire to spread the word about something that has treatment options out there is all my own. 

Don’t think it’s that big of a deal? Well check this out for stats – the “IBS in America” survey found that most IBS sufferers experience symptoms for more than a year before talking with a doctor, and some of them waited a decade or more. Seriously?! Can you imagine allowing yourself to go through that on a daily basis without trying to get some help? If you can identify with that, then it’s time to stop allowing it to go on.       The good news is people are talking about it. A lot of people in fact. They’re just not talking to the right people. About 8 in 10 respondents to the same survey admit they have discussed IBS with someone but many reported receiving advice from “non-doctors”. Now, I think it’s great that people are having the discussion, but let’s start having that talk with the right people. You know, the doctors; because IBS can affect you more that you might think.       Recurring symptoms like abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, bloating or cramping can impact people physically, emotionally and socially. Think about it…you know you’re going to end up with the pain and cramps and who knows what else so you turn down those dinner dates and tailgate parties with all of your friends. Believe it or not, it effects your family members too. Maybe they don’t suffer physically, but emotionally and socially, we’re all in the same boat. We need to change that!       I get it. This stuff is hard to talk about but the good news is that most people are very satisifed with the care they receive once they start talking to a doctor. Isn’t the potential for relief worth it?

 

 

Do me a favor. If you can relate to recurring abdominal and bowel symptoms, make a resolution to take care of your GI health and break the self-help cycle. Speak up early, completely and often with your doctor and join the discussion on social media – #IBSinAmerica. You are not alone in this fight!