I've had problems with my tummy for as long as I can remember. As a child I had a "nervous stomach", which meant that any excitement caused a rush to the loo. I was told I'd grow out of it. I didn't.
So, I gave up milk, bread, fibrous foods, tinned food in turn, all to no avail. I had cameras down my throat and up my posterior, drank umpteen glasses of water, swallowed anti emetics and liquid barium and was scanned this way, that way and the other way. Nothing. Finally the docs gave up, diagnosed Irritable Bowel and sent me away.
I have been taking the IBS meds for IBS for some years now, not noticing any change and in fact the last year has gotten worse. Not only am I running to the loo several times a day (and with very little notice), but since nothing was staying in very long, my other meds weren't working as well as they should. In fact I take extra meds to try and balance the ins and outs. I was also exhausted all the time. I spend weekends asleep because I don't have the energy to go on otherwise.
So back to the doctor. Another round of bloods, scans and such frolics until I met Him. Professor S. He was the lucky doctor who got to pop a camera where no camera should go. He recognised my symptoms and he thought he knew what it was. I started to cry, and not just because of the probe. Pretty much my whole adult life has been spent making sure I know where the loos are and that I have immodium to hand.
I have had to wait for appointments to become available - It has taken several months but this week I finally took part one of the test which Prof S thinks will clinch the deal. It involves radioactive tablet and a scan or two. Alas no super powers yet, but I am glowing a little more than usual. Next week the second scan and then back to Prof at the end of the month.
I am terrified. What if it isn't what he thought and therefore the tests are only just beginning? He said this was the most likely option but there are others... What if it is this and the prescribed meds don't work? What if they do? The last 30 years have been pretty grim for me and any poor soul who wanted to use the facilities when I'm around! But it's all I know. What if I take the meds but I'm STILL exhausted? I have been blaming my tiredness on this condition. But what if I'm just a wimp or 'delicate'? What if I will never be able to have late nights or active weekends without booking holiday first?
I'm frightened, I'm tired and my bottom hurts. Also I think gas & air is marvellous, the NHS is wondrous and I just might have a half-life. So it's not all bad...
