Woman with IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, significantly impacting their daily lives and overall well-being. 

While it’s not life-threatening, the unpredictable nature of IBS can cause considerable distress and disrupt daily activities. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, have been living with IBS for years, or suspect you might have the condition, this guide by us here at e-Surgery aims to provide you with valuable insights and practical information. 

What Is IBS?

IBS is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. Unlike inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, IBS doesn’t cause visible damage to the digestive tract or increase the risk of colorectal cancer. However, it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. 

IBS is characterised by a group of intestinal symptoms that typically occur together. These symptoms can vary in severity and duration, often coming and going over time. It’s a chronic condition, meaning it requires ongoing management, but it’s not life-threatening. 

The exact mechanisms of IBS are not fully understood, but it’s believed to involve a disturbance in the interaction between the gut, brain, and nervous system, leading to altered bowel habits and increased pain sensitivity in the intestines. 

It’s important to note that IBS is a real medical condition, not a result of imagination or stress alone, although stress can exacerbate symptoms. With proper diagnosis and management, many people with IBS can lead normal, active lives. 

Symptoms Of IBS 

The symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. These symptoms often come and go, with periods of flare-ups followed by times of little to no discomfort. The most common symptoms of IBS include: 

  • Abdominal Pain & Cramping: This is the primary symptoms of IBS. The pain is often relieved by having a bowel movement and may worsen during menstrual periods for women. 
  • Bloating & Gas: Many people with IBS experience a sensation of bloating or swelling in the abdomen. This bloating is often accompanied by increased gas production, leading to discomfort and the feeling of being “full”. 
  • Diarrhoea: In IBS-D (diarrhoea-predominant), individuals may experience frequent, loose, or watery stools. This can occur suddenly and may be accompanied by an urgent need to use the bathroom. 
  • Constipation: In IBS-C (constipation-predominant), people may have hard, infrequent stools that are difficult to pass. This can lead to straining during bowel movements and a sensation of incomplete evacuation. 
  • Mucus In Stool: The presence of clear or white mucus in the stool is another symptom associated with IBS. However, this should not be confused with blood in the stool, which requires immediate medical attention. 

It’s important to note that symptoms can be triggered or worsened by various factors, including certain foods or drinks, stress, hormonal changes (especially in women), or other illnesses. 

Causes & Risk Factors 

The exact cause of IBS remains unknown, but researchers believe it results from a combination of factors: 

  • Intestinal Muscle Contractions: The walls of the intestines are lined with layers of muscle that contract to move food through the digestive tract. Stronger or longer lasting contractions can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhoea, while weaker contractions can slow food passage and lead to constipation. 
  • Nervous System Abnormalities: Poorly coordinated signals between the brain and intestines can cause the body to overreact to normal digestive processes, leading to pain, diarrhoea, or constipation. 
  • Severe Infection: IBS can develop after a severe bout of diarrhoea caused by bacteria or viruses.  
  • Early Life Stress: People exposed to stressful events, especially in childhood, are more likely to develop IBS. 
  • Changes In Gut Microbes: The types and quantities of bacteria in the digestive tract may play a role in IBS development. Some people with IBS have an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. 
  • Food Sensitivity: Many people with IBS report that certain foods trigger their symptoms, although no specific food has been universally identified as an IBS trigger. 

There are also several risk factors which can increase the likelihood of developing IBS. These include age, gender, family history, mental health issues, trauma, stress, and potentially certain medications. 

If you’re concerned about your risk of IBS or are experiencing symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and potential treatment options.

Diagnosing IBS 

Diagnosing IBS can be challenging as there’s no specific test for the condition. Instead, doctor’s use a combination of criteria, symptom assessment, and exclusion of other conditions. 

The process typically begins with a detailed medical history, where your doctor will ask about your symptoms, their duration, and any factors that seem to trigger or relieve them. They’ll also inquire about your family’s medical history and any recent stressors in your life. 

A thorough physical examination follows to rule out other conditions and check for any abdominal tenderness or abnormalities. To further exclude other conditions, your doctor may recommend blood tests to check for coeliac disease or inflammation, stool tests for infections or hidden blood, and potentially a colonoscopy, especially if you’re over 50 or have alarming symptoms like weight loss or rectal bleeding 

It’s essential to work closely with your doctor throughout the process – be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about the diagnosis or treatment options. 

Treatment Options 

Although there is no cure for IBS, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment often involves a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and medications. 

Dietary Changes 

Managing IBS often involves dietary adjustments for individual needs. Adjusting fibre intake is crucial; increasing it can help with constipation, while reducing it may alleviate diarrhoea. 

Identifying and avoiding common trigger foods like caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or spicy dishes is key. Additionally, staying well hydrated by drinking plenty of water supports regular bowel movements and can ease both constipation and diarrhoea. 

Lifestyle Modifications 

Stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or cognitive-behavioural therapy, can help reduce stress-related IBS symptoms. Regular exercise is also beneficial, as it not only helps regulate bowel function but also lowers stress levels, contributing to symptom relief. 

Getting enough quality sleep is crucial, as it supports better management of IBS. Additionally, practicing good time management – by setting aside time for relaxation and maintaining regular meal schedules – can help prevent symptom flare-ups and promote a more balanced routine. 

Medications 

There are several types of medication available to help manage IBS symptoms: 

  • Antispasmodics: These drugs help reduce abdominal pain and cramping by relaxing the muscles in the intestines. 
  • Antidiarrheal Medications: For those with diarrhoea-predominant IBS, drugs like loperamide can help control loose stools. 
  • Laxatives: For constipation-predominant IBS, various types of laxatives can help promote regular bowel movements. 
  • Antidepressants: Low doses of certain antidepressants can help reduce pain and improve bowel function. 
  • IBS-Specific Medications: Drugs like linaclotide, plecanatide, and eluxadoline are designed specifically for IBS treatment. 
  • Probiotics: These supplements containing beneficial bacteria may help some people with IBS symptoms. 

It is vital that you consult with your doctor before starting any new medication.

Living With IBS 

Managing IBS is often a long-term process that requires patience and perseverance. Here are some tips for living well with IBS: 

  • Keep A Symptom Diary: This can help identify triggers and track the effectiveness of treatments. You should note foods eaten, stress levels, and symptoms experienced. 
  • Plan Ahead: When travelling or attending events, be prepared with safe foods and necessary medications. 
  • Join A Support Group: Connecting with others who have IBS can provide emotional support and practical advice. 
  • Communicate With Your Healthcare Team: Regular check-ins with your doctor can help adjust your treatment plan as needed. Do not hesitate to discuss new symptoms or concerns. 
  • Manage Stress: Since stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms, finding effective stress management techniques is crucial. This might include regular exercise, mediation, or hobbies. 
  • Be Kind To Yourself: Remember that IBS flare-ups are not your fault, and it’s okay to take time for self-care. 
  • Educate Your Friends & Family: Help those close to you understand your condition, leading to better support and understanding. 
  • Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, good sleep habits, and a balanced diet can all contribute to better symptom management. 

Next Steps 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a complex disorder that can significantly impact daily life. However, with proper diagnosis, treatment, and self-management strategies, many people with IBS can effectively control their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. 

Remember, every person’s experience with IBS is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. It’s essential to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalised management plan that addresses your specific needs and symptoms. 

e-Surgery is here to support you in managing your IBS. With a wide range of IBS medications available, easy access to healthcare advice, and resources to help you understand and manage your condition, e-Surgery is your go-to online pharmacy for all your asthma care needs. Explore our IBS medication product pages, read our informative blogs, and take advantage of our convenient, discreet, and accessible services designed to help you maintain control over your IBS.