I've developed digestive issues – now I'm always scared of having an accident | The Sun

DEAR DEIDRE: SINCE I developed digestive issues, I’ve been so scared of having an embarrassing accident that I take anti-diarrhoea tablets every day.

Worrying about what might happen is making me incredibly anxious and stopping me enjoying my life.

I’m a 28-year-old guy and have had tummy problems for about five years.

It all started after a very stressful time when my girlfriend broke up with me and I lost my first job.

I started needing the loo several times a day, and on one horrific occasion I didn’t make it in time.

I wanted to disappear through the floor.

I had to throw away my pants and hope nobody noticed.

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The worse my symptoms got, the more I became paranoid I had bowel cancer.

Eventually, my mum persuaded me to go to the doctor.

I had a load of tests which all came back clear.

My GP now says I have irritable bowel syndrome.

It’s ruined my life.

I’m too nervous to date, and people have commented on how often I go to the bathroom, making me self-conscious.

I’ve started taking Imodium every day, so I won’t need the loo and so there’s no chance of a nasty accident.

But I’m worried this isn’t a good long-term solution.

DEIDRE SAYS: Please see your doctor again.

Taking Imodium every day is very unwise.

It can even cause heart problems if misused.

For specialist support, contact theibsnetwork.org.

Irritable bowel syndrome can be triggered by stress, so perhaps you should talk to someone about your fears.

Anxiety.org.uk can help.

And see my support pack on Anxiety.