Update

reason #38 why I adore the internet:

Seems that whenever I post a pressing concern online, be it on a blog or message board or whatever, it gets resolved quickly. Kind of reminds me of that self-help suggestion of writing down your goals or whatever it is. I used to think that writing things down helped spur subconscious commitment somehow, but maybe it's really just cosmic. The words have to exist in some sort of visual form for the stars to be favourably aligned.

Anyway, shortly after typing my previous entry, I got a letter about my consultation with a GI specialist. I have an appointment. Unfortunately, it's not until April, so I have to decide if I'll take the opportunity to go on another elimination diet/food journal escapade to give myself a bit of a break, or what, but, FORTUNATELY, judging by what Google dug up, this doctor believes in managing conditions through diet and exercise--to what extent, I don't know, but it seems promising. That's the approach I'm hoping for. Not just pills. I've sought medical help for my gut issue in the two other countries I've lived in: my Korean doctor ran some enzyme tests and put me on a better diet which has helped a LOT (I'm no longer dropping 20 or so pounds when things get bad, or falling asleep while standing); my American doctor tried to dismiss me but after some begging and rather graphic descriptions on my part, she gave me pills. To be honest, they were quite effective in removing a rather disgusting symptom but they were no cure.

So maybe the third time's the charm.