IBS and DLA?

elisebutt65

Just lately my IBS has been getting worse and worse. I've had to cut out all bread products as it only takes one slice and I'm in the loo for the next hour.

Just lately as well I get cramps when I'm walking back home from work or shopping and it is sooo painful to hold everything in until i can race to the loo:eek: Literally walking bent over down the street. My anti -spasmodics don't do anything!1

I'm going to the GP's next week as I'm a teacher, I really need this sorted out before I have a horrible accident at work! Luckily it never seems to happen once I'm in the classroom and am absorbed in the lesson but sometimes I'm late to class as I'm in the loo for all of my 15 minute break!

Everytime I eat anything now, the cramps hit about 5-10 minutes later - my weight is going up though despite me eating so little and then evacuating most of it immedaitely.

Just wondering if I can claim DLA for this as it really is ruining my life so much so that I'm starting to not want to leave the house for anything not vital. I'm sending my eldest out for shopping when I can but it's not fair on him as he's only 14.

Morglin

You might find it a struggle to get DLA on IBS alone, although DLA Unit are supposed to consider the impact of a disability on daily life, and not the cause.

Have a look at this site:

http://www.benefitsnow.co.uk/

If you think you may meet the crtiteria, then I would avise that you contact a welfare rights worker (via the CAB) to help you with the forms.

Lin

munchings-n-crunchings

Hello,

I think you would really struggle with a DLA application.

DLA is awarded not because of a diagnosis, but due to the extra care that you need from another person.

Although your condition impacts on your life, you don't need help or assistance from another person to help with the effects of IBS.

You do mention about shopping, and it's right a 14 year old can do a little to help their parent, but if the weekly food shop is an issue, then there are now different shopping options, than trawling round the supermarket.

I think you're right to go back to your GP, and update him on how you are being affected. Keep a food diary, and as you feel you are putting on weight, include this as well. The more information you can provide for your GP, will help him decide on a course of action.

Here is the information the DWP will use to inform them of IBS
http://www.dwp.gov.uk/publications/specialist-guides/medical-conditions/a-z-of-medical-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/

Regards
Munchie