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In his regular Gut Reaction column, Professor Nick Read, The Gut Trust's medical advisor sheds light on some of your personal questions about living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and offers advice and support where possible to help you tackle your illness.

If you have a problem you can write to Professor Read.
About Nick Read

Professor Nick Read is a consultant gastroenterologist and analytical psychotherapist. He uses both of these disciplines in combination to investigate and treat patients with mind-body diseases, particularly those with functional gastrointestinal disorders.

So his expertise can reach a wider audience, Professor Read offers readers of Gut Reaction a sample of the letters he regularly receives and answers on behalf of The Gut Trust.

Constipation and Pain after a Holiday


My son has suffered severe abdominal pain and constipation since returning from holiday
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Anxiety and IBS


When I rush around, I end up with IBS. Are there any books that can help?
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Not smelling of roses


I'm depressed, lonely and desperate because I smell of faeces.
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Getting a private stool analysis


I have been an IBS sufferer for 14 years and have tried many dietary options over the years. Is it possible to have a stool sample analysis done privately to identify any parasites in the gut?
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York Test results


I have suffered with IBS for many years and it has had its highs and lows. However, having suffered an upsurge in symptoms for several months I decided to go for a blood test through York.
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Are probiotics my saviour?


My initial diagnosis of IBS came after a bout of Gastronenteritis and a Rotovirus. Is there a bona fide link between antibiotic use and IBS symptoms?
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How can i manage my son's IBS?


I know that we need to manage my son's IBS and don't want to constantly refer him for tests, is there anything I should be trying as well as "food removal"?
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I suffer from chronic wind


I suffer from chronic and foul-smelling wind which is making my social and work life unbearable. Is there the chance I have an infection?
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The case for colonic irrigation


I saw an article in the Daily Telegraph about the so-called 'mystery' of IBS. Every time I read these articles I'm amazed that no mention is made of colonic irrigation.
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Coronary care drugs ease my symptoms


I was identified as an IBS patient over a year ago, since then I've been bulking up my diet to cope with the diarrhoea and taking coronary care drugs for the pain. Is the IBS diagnosis correct?
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Can this be normal for my age?


I suffer from anal leakage and have bleeding duodenal ulcers. I'm only 39, is this normal for my age?
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'Run Down' remedy?


I follow a restrictive diet which makes my IBS manageable, but I now feel run down much of the time. What can I do to improve my symptoms and also not feel run down?
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