From my early teens, I regularly experienced stomach pain and discomfort, bloating and frequent change in bowel movements including sudden episodes of diarrhoea.
My GP finally diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome when I was in my late 20s. It was a relief to have a formal diagnosis, but none of the recommended treatments relieved the symptoms I experienced.
Exercise keeps me feeling physically fit and mentally well, and I’m a keen swimmer and long distance runner. My symptoms were starting to affect my enjoyment of exercise, particularly running, and I felt like my gut was starting to control my life. I also became anxious about eating out with friends and family, as well as when eating out due to work events.
I was chatting to my friend about my health one day, and she recommended silicolgel.
At the first sign of a bout of stomach pain and bloating, I take a dose of silicolgel and repeat as directed. I’ve never needed to take more than two doses to gain control of my symptoms, particularly during the week leading up to my period. Before long, the stomach pains and bloating dissipate which means that I feel much more comfortable by day, and my nights are less disturbed.
I now feel more in control of my IBS and enjoy a normal social life, dining out with friends and at work with confidence knowing that I can always take a sachet of silicolgel should symptoms strike.
Where most Christmases were marred by stomach issues triggered by parties and stress, the last couple of years have been good since finding silicolgel.
I had been worried that I might have to slow down or stop running altogether if I couldn’t get my IBS under control.
Silicolgel has also helped keep me running.Local runs were manageable if I made sure I used the toilet multiple times before running, but long distance running was becoming difficult if I was in pain or needed to keep finding a toilet to feel comfortable. With silicolgel to-hand, I don’t have to worry about aborting a run due to stomach pains or having to stop to find a toilet. I’ve even felt confident enough now to start train for an ultra-marathon.