The Dreaded "F" Word

I have been taught that to become a truly spiritual person one must be stripped of pride and have humility. Gastrointestinal issues that sometimes come with limited scleroderma is a tool to help with that refining process! After my rheumatologist added several drugs to my prescription cocktail, I had to deal with the dreaded "F" word - flatulent. . . 

Excuse me!

Fecal incontinence, bloating and swallowing air while working food down a weakened esophagus, paired with loose sphincters is a recipe for fanny halitosis and embarrassment. After I took my meds each morning, I could produce burps that would make a teen-age boy proud, but I was not pleased. So back on the Internet I went looking for solutions. I started adding wheat grass to my vegetable smoothies, and after several days, I dared to go out in public again. My primary-care physician gave me a prescription for anti-gas/simethicone that I take on occasion. I also try to avoid foods that produce excessive bloating. I always keep clean underwear, wipes and panty liners with me in case of emergency. I scout out locations of restrooms when I am out shopping etc. so I will be prepared if I need them and do not have time to search. There are many other issues with scleroderma that are painful or inconvenient, but for me, the indelicate subject of these "F" words, farts, flatulent, fluffs, flurpies or flabbergasters and fecal incontinence is the most annoying, especially unexpected sharts, but I have to admit they are pride strippers, and you find out who your friends really are!