The meaning of constipation
So why do people get constipated? Is it all due to the diet; not enough fruit, vegetables or cereal fibre? Do they have a disease affecting the motility of the … Continue reading
‘Twas the clinic before Christmas
It had been a long clinic. It was already six o’clock and I wanted to go home when the nurse came in and said she was sorry but I had … Continue reading
The patient’s story and the politics of representation.
Fifty years ago, medical students were always instructed to record a good history. This was a story of ‘the patient’. It could take anything from half an hour to an … Continue reading
Is your life with IBS intolerable? So tell us your story.
Tracey wrote to me the other day. You asked me to tell you what my life with IBS was like. Well, I am thirty nine years old and have had … Continue reading
A Case for Columbo
I receive many letters on The IBS Network website (Ask Prof Nick) from people tormented daily and often for years by their abdominal pain, bloating and bowel upset. Although Susie’s … Continue reading
Is it all the effect of what happened?
Shirley wrote to me yesterday. I have IBS, possibly caused by a traumatic road accident when I was 18, but I also suffer recurring sinus and ear problems as well … Continue reading
Whatever happened to Susan?
It was late spring and yet Susan arrived dressed in a heavy overcoat, which she kept on throughout the whole of our consultation. Her surgeon had written to me from … Continue reading
IBS. Blame my mother-in-law!
At The IBS Network, we get letters; lots and lots of letters. Janice’s letter arrived this this morning and struck a chord! Hello I’m Janice. I’ve suffered from Irritable bowel … Continue reading
The Sensitive Gut 