How do you handle flares?

[panicked]

Hi all. I was recently dx with IBS. I'm in a nasty flare right now with alternating d/c. Ive never had such a bad time. I'm constantly nauseated, gassy and bloated to the point where I look pregnant. I'm celiac and have been following a strict FODMAP diet for weeks now. I'm really tired of feeling like shit, no pun intended. What do you do when you flare up?

[anna7602]

My doctor prescribed steroids during my last very bad flare-up. I couldn't eat anything at all except for clear broth, so I needed major intervention.

[tacom]

panicked, so sorry you are suffering. I have Crohn's and suffered from unpredictable flares for 8 years. Finding the right meds has so far worked for me (I haven't had a flare since I started remicade on 12/31/2013).

However, my experience taught me to:
- modify my diet. eat bland, non-fatty foods and hydrate. the fewer solids the better.
- if I'm worried about dehydration, call my PCP. she usually can fit me in for a quick exam and vitals check and will send me to the ER if she wants me to get IV hydration
- no tight/restrictive clothing around my waist. ouch!
- try to de-stress. I definitely found that stress and flares were highly correlated.
- extra sleep. it's good for healing!


I hope you're feeling better.