About irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It causes symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation. These tend to come and go over time, and can last for days, weeks, or months at a time.

The main symptoms of IBS include stomach pain or cramps, bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation. Other symptoms can include excessive wind, a feeling of not having fully emptied your bowels, and mucus in your stools.

The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it's thought to be related to problems with digestion and increased sensitivity of the gut. Triggers can include certain foods, stress, and a gastrointestinal infection.

IBS is a common condition in the UK, affecting an estimated 1 in 5 people at some point in their lives. It is more common in women than in men and usually develops when a person is in their twenties.

There is no cure for IBS, but the symptoms can often be managed with lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and sometimes medications.

IBS is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and by ruling out other conditions. Your GP may also suggest some tests such as blood tests or a stool sample to make sure you don't have any other conditions.

Dietary changes can include avoiding trigger foods such as certain types of fibre, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat foods. Some people find relief by following the low FODMAP diet, which involves avoiding certain carbohydrates that can trigger symptoms.

Yes, there are medications that can help relieve symptoms of IBS. These can include antispasmodics to reduce stomach cramps, laxatives to relieve constipation, and antimotility medicines to reduce diarrhoea.

Stress can be a significant trigger for IBS symptoms as it affects the gut-brain interaction. Reducing stress through techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or counselling can be beneficial in managing symptoms.

IBS is not a life-threatening condition, but it can significantly affect your quality of life. Managing the symptoms effectively is important to maintaining daily activities and overall well-being.

Regular exercise can help to relieve stress, improve bowel function, and reduce symptoms of IBS. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga can be particularly beneficial.

Some people with IBS may find that probiotics help to reduce symptoms like bloating and gas. However, the evidence is mixed, and different strains of probiotics may have different effects.

People with IBS may also have other chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Managing these conditions can also help manage IBS symptoms.

Lifestyle changes that can help include eating smaller meals more frequently, staying hydrated, avoiding trigger foods, managing stress, getting regular exercise, and ensuring you get enough sleep.

Yes, it's important to see your GP if you experience IBS symptoms. They can help diagnose the condition, rule out other possible causes, and suggest an appropriate treatment plan to manage your symptoms.