It can be challenging to deal withirritable bowel syndrome(IBS) and work.
Few jobs offer the luxury of uninterrupted private access to a bathroom.
Many jobs require sitting in meetings.
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Keeping your IBS a secret may end up being sostressfulthat it actually makes your symptoms worse.
The key to telling others about your IBS is to choose the person you confide in wisely.
Depending on their trustworthiness, consider telling your immediate supervisor about your IBS.
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Similarly, make a careful choice and confide in trustworthy co-workers.
Another option is to ask for a later shift, as IBS symptoms are often worse in the morning.
Consider going freelance, allowing you to work from home, if possible in your field.
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This means that you have to treat it with kid gloves.
If diarrhea is your predominant symptom, you will be glad for that extra time!
Dont fall into the procrastination trap.
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Deadlines can be very stressful.
This way you are not stressing out your system any more than it already is.
However, for severe cases of IBS, temporary or permanent disability may become a necessity.
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If you have access to a human resources department, make an appointment.
They are generally well-trained in helping people understand their options and navigate their way through the process.
Corsetti M, Whorwell PJ.Managing irritable bowel syndrome in primary care.Practitioner.
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2015;259(1783):21-4, 2-3.
2015;2(1):2055102914564583. doi:10.1177/2055102914564583
