Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning that the bowel isn’t quite working in the way it should, but there is nothing otherwise wrong. Despite its prevalence, many people are still unaware of the underlying causes and effective treatment options for IBS. In this blog, we will explore the top 5 things that you may not know about IBS.
1. There are different subtypes of IBS
There are four different subtypes of IBS, which relate to the different bowel patterns that IBS can present with. These subtypes are: IBS-D (diarrhoea-predominant), IBS-C (constipation-predominant), IBS-M (mixed diarrhoea and constipation) and IBS-U (unclassified i.e. symptoms are consistent with IBS but they don’t fall into one of the other three categories). This means that each individual with IBS may experience different symptoms and require different treatment approaches.
2. IBS can be triggered by stress
Stress is a common trigger for IBS symptoms, and research has shown that stress can affect the gut in a number of ways. For example, stress can cause the gut to become more sensitive, leading to increased pain and discomfort. Stress can also affect gut motility, causing diarrhoea or constipation. In addition, stress can alter the gut microbiome, which can contribute to the development of IBS.
3. There is no single cure for IBS
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all cure for IBS. Each individual may require a different treatment approach based on the severity of their symptoms and underlying causes. However, there are several effective management strategies, such as dietary changes and stress management techniques that can help relieve symptoms and improve overall gut health.
4. Food can play a big role in IBS symptoms
Food can play a significant role in IBS symptoms and trigger symptoms for some individuals. Common triggers include certain types of carbohydrates, such as those found in processed foods and refined sugars, and specific types of fats and proteins. A Low-FODMAP diet, which restricts certain types of carbohydrates, has been shown to be an effective dietary approach for some individuals with IBS.
5. IBS does not just affect women
The symptoms of IBS may be more noticeable in women due to hormonal changes. However, men can also be diagnosed with IBS It is important for both men and women to seek an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if they are experiencing symptoms of IBS.
In conclusion, IBS is a common digestive disorder that affects many individuals worldwide. Understanding the underlying causes and effective treatment options can help individuals better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you experience symptoms of IBS, it is important to seek the guidance of a healthcare provider to receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Duration and flares
You might well have heard of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), but like many people, not know much about it even if you suffer from it yourself. IBS is actually an incredibly common condition, and it is estimated that up to 15% of the population may have it, with women being most regularly affected by it[i]. Despite its prevalence, the condition itself is fairly complex, and experiences can vary from one person to the next.
Everything you need to know about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Do you ever feel like your stomach is in knots with cramps, bloating and toilet troubles to the point where you don’t want to leave the house? If this is something you experience often, you’re probably one of the millions of people around the world who struggle with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
