Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It causes a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. While IBS can be distressing, it doesn’t lead to more serious conditions like cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. Managing IBS typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and sometimes medication. Understanding the causes and treatments can help improve quality of life for those living with this condition.

Symptoms of IBS

The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome can vary from person to person and may come and go. The most common symptoms include:

1. Abdominal pain or cramping: This pain is often relieved after a bowel movement.
2. Bloating and excessive gas: Many people with IBS experience a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
3. Diarrhoea or constipation: IBS can cause both diarrhoea and constipation, sometimes alternating between the two.
4. Changes in stool consistency: Stools may become harder, looser, or appear in smaller or irregular shapes.
5. Urgency to pass stools: Some people feel an urgent need to use the toilet, even when they don’t pass much stool.
6. Mucus in stools: Mucus in the stool is a common symptom of IBS.

Symptoms can be triggered by certain foods, stress, or hormonal changes and may vary in severity.

Causes of IBS

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to play a role. Some of the common contributing factors include:

Gut-Brain Connection: There is a strong connection between the gut and the brain, and disruptions in this communication can cause the intestines to contract more than usual, leading to IBS symptoms.

Digestive System Sensitivity: People with IBS may have an overly sensitive digestive system that overreacts to normal processes such as food digestion or gas production.

Food Sensitivities: Certain foods, such as those high in fat, caffeine, dairy, or certain carbohydrates, can trigger symptoms in people with IBS.

Stress: Stress and anxiety can worsen IBS symptoms. While stress doesn’t cause IBS, the gut can become more sensitive to stress, leading to increased discomfort.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menstruation, can exacerbate IBS symptoms in women.

Infections: A previous gastrointestinal infection or bout of food poisoning can trigger IBS in some individuals, a condition known as post-infectious IBS.

Diagnosing IBS

There is no specific test to diagnose IBS, and it’s often identified by ruling out other conditions. A doctor will typically take a full medical history, assess your symptoms, and may perform tests to rule out more serious issues like inflammatory bowel disease or coeliac disease. In some cases, they may recommend blood tests, stool samples, or a colonoscopy.

Treatment and Management of IBS

While there is no cure for IBS, it can be effectively managed with a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes medication. Treatment plans often vary based on individual symptoms.

1. Dietary Adjustments

Diet plays a major role in managing IBS symptoms. Keeping a food diary to track which foods trigger your symptoms can be helpful. Some common dietary changes include:

• Low-FODMAP Diet: This diet involves limiting foods that contain certain carbohydrates (FODMAPs) that can ferment in the gut and cause bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. Foods such as onions, garlic, beans, and certain fruits may be reduced.
• Increase Fibre Intake: For those with constipation, increasing fibre intake through whole grains, fruits, and vegetables may help. However, those with diarrhoea may need to limit their fibre intake, particularly insoluble fibre found in certain cereals and bread.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps with digestion and can ease constipation, a common symptom of IBS.
• Avoid Trigger Foods: Fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods can worsen symptoms for some individuals, so cutting back on these may be beneficial.

2. Lifestyle Changes

In addition to dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes can help manage IBS symptoms:

• Reduce Stress: Since stress is a major trigger for IBS symptoms, practising stress-management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help reduce flare-ups.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps improve digestion and can relieve symptoms like bloating and constipation.
• Get Enough Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for overall well-being and can help manage IBS symptoms.

3. Medications

For some people, medications may be necessary to manage IBS symptoms, particularly if lifestyle and dietary changes aren’t enough:

• Antispasmodics: These medications help reduce abdominal pain and cramping by relaxing the muscles in the gut.
• Laxatives or Anti-diarrhoeal Medication: Depending on whether constipation or diarrhoea is the main issue, over-the-counter medications can help regulate bowel movements.
• Probiotics: These supplements may help restore a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, improving digestion and reducing symptoms.
• Antidepressants: Low doses of certain antidepressants can help relieve abdominal pain and regulate bowel function, particularly in people with IBS related to anxiety or depression.

Living Life to the Full with IBS

Living with IBS can be challenging, but with the right approach, symptoms can be managed effectively. By understanding your triggers, making dietary and lifestyle adjustments, and seeking medical advice when necessary, you can significantly improve your quality of life. If you think you may have IBS, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Contact us to discuss your symptoms with a member of the team or view our products online.