Potty Trouble

We tend to do the majority of our dealings with healthy people. In some cases, we find out that so-and-so is sick or a neighbor is having some health problems. Healthy folk have thought perplexingly, “They don’t look sick.” I have been guilty of saying these types of statements.

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Crohn’s Disease, and other GI (Gastrointestinal) Disorders haunt many people. I have seen many cases of those struggling with undiagnosed pain in this area. Though appearing outwardly healthy, these enduring and brave souls battle significant pain within. Often, these pains go undiagnosed and those inflicted face handling it alone.  

Culture does not help in this case. Typically, discussing your bowel problems is socially unacceptable…and awkward! Let’s face it- who has not on occasion found themselves laughing at commercials, jokes, or stories about others’ intestinal mishaps?  This attitude makes most people at least a little self-conscience about their potty troubles.

Over the past several years, I have seen close loved ones be burdened with GI misfortunes. My heart goes out to those struggling with these issues.

Unforeseen anxieties come to these people. When you go out and interact, do you worry most about whether or not there is a bathroom close by? Do you fret about unknown settings you may find yourself in should your stomach decide it is unhappy with you?  Is there enough going on that people won’t hear your belly roar?

Situations that are particularly hard for people dealing with GI issues: any intimate or quiet setting, deep in nature, movie theaters, classrooms, church, etc. Home is typically where you find the bowel-burdened.

From watching those facing these struggles, I have had lights come on concerning these issues.  

People have inside battles. You do not know what is going on internally for others.  

When you hear of people having struggles in their tummies, recommending diets is unhelpful. GI issues are chronic, which means they have been dealing with it for a long time. I can guarantee they have probably tried the diet you suggested.

There are forces behind why someone might not feel comfortable in particular settings.

All of us like to feel a sense of control. GI problems are basically uncontrollable. Therefore, those with these problems will try and control what they can. This normally means they will be particular about certain situations and settings they agree to.  

To those afflicted with these problems, it is often very embarrassing for them. This is a silent burden. You won’t recall a lot of people sharing these types of trials with you.

Watch your judgments.