Bowel issues...concerned

[PrincessAprilB]

A little bit about myself. I am a 29 year old white female with a history of stomach issues. I had a colonoscopy done when I was 19 years old. The doctor diagnosed me with irritable bowel. Over the years, the diarrhea has become increasingly worse, with alternating patterns of diarrhea and normal bowel movements. Over the past year or so, it's become much worse I have noticed. Lately I have noticed a lot of dark, ribbon like stools. They usually float (not sure if that means much). They are usually quite thin, maybe the width of a pencil, with lengths varying from small to medium. Many times they are dark but sometimes they are not. I have had several occasions of abdominal pain. Tonight I had some so bad it had me concerned. It was quite sharp and seemed focused on my midsection. When I went to the bathroom, I had more sharp pains, followed by small passes of the ribbon-like stools. This alternated about 5 times before finally my stomach settled. I usually go at least 4 times a day, no matter what I eat or drink, or when I eat or drink. I've been concerned for a while now that things seem to be increasing, but due to lack of insurance (and only one income family with 3 kids), I'm trying to avoid unneeded medical costs. What I am curious about is any opinions or thoughts as to anything I can do to help or should I be seen?

[PrincessAprilB]

I haven't tried it yet. Sounds like an interesting venue to check out. Thanks for your feedback :)

[LivingWater]

I relate to your symptoms; all and more!  I have been managing post-infectious IBS for 9 months now with little to no relief.  My war is being waged with pro-biotics, herbs and acupuncture.   I have to stay positive and believe there will be relief someday, but it's hard.  Have you tried acupuncture?

[PrincessAprilB]

Guess I should mention...

No noticed extreme weight loss, but usually yo-yo's no more than 10 pounds. Fatigued on a daily basis with insomnia at night. Occasional nausea, but no vomiting. No medications regularly except albuterol for my asthma as needed. Occasional drinker. No known family hx of stomach/colon cancer or polyps. Gallbladder/kidney stones tend to run in my family though. Had concerns of a thyroid disorder due to having most of the symptoms, but blood results were negative.