I’ve been wanting to write about this for some time, but haven’t had the courage to do so. While it’s not a big deal to some, for me, it’s been a life-long burden. You see, I have IBS. There, I’ve said it. And for those of you who are scratching your head wondering what in the world IBS is and why it is such a big deal, I’m going to tell you.
IBS stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I know, sounds pleasant, doesn’t it? Well then, you’re going to love the definition of it:
“Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal condition characterized by abdominal pain and cramps; changes in bowel movements; bloating; nausea; and other symptoms. There is no cure for IBS. Much about the condition remains unknown or poorly understood; however, dietary changes, drugs, and psychological treatment are often able to eliminate or substantially reduce its symptoms. No one knows for sure how many Americans suffer from IBS. Surveys indicate a range of 10-20%, with perhaps as many as 30% of Americans experiencing IBS at some point in their lives. IBS normally makes its first appearance during young adulthood, and in half of all cases symptoms begin before age 35. Women with IBS outnumber men by two to one, for reasons that are not yet understood. IBS is responsible for more time lost from work and school than any medical problem other than the common cold. (Taken from Answers.com)”
Do you see now why I haven’t wanted to talk about it? It’s not exactly something you bring up as dinner conversation. Yet I have been dealing with this problem since high school which was 20 years ago (although I was not officially diagnosed until after a series of tests in 2005). And I only mention it now because it affects so many aspects of my life, from the decision to have a baby, to the ability to travel, and sometimes even going to work on a daily basis. There have been times that it has been difficult just to go two miles down the street to the grocery store.
Not that my problem has been so bad that I can’t function outside of the home. Thankfully, it hasn’t come to that point. Instead, I’ve struggled with the anxiety that is associated with the issue. The constant worrying about what would happen if I were to have an attack or if I were stuck somewhere unexpectedly. And let me tell you, the mind is a powerful thing. So powerful that I often talked myself out of participating in events simply because I convinced myself that I couldn’t do it.
It’s been a difficult struggle and one that has frustrated me. But even with all of that, even with the fears and the issues associated with having IBS, I am still grateful for my body, as imperfect as it is. I know that there are people with much worse issues with which they are dealing. People who are fighting life-threatening diseases, people who are addicted to various substances, people who have suffered injuries and debilitating birth defects. Every one of us has something that makes our body unique or gives us challenges. I know that I’m not the only one. I also know that I am still here - I’m still going strong and fighting my battles everyday. And even though my body is imperfect, I’m grateful that I have one.
I couldn’t live without it.
Is there a physical challenge that you struggle with or something about your body that you don’t like?
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