Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common issue that can significantly impact our physical and mental well-being. For many, symptoms like bloating, gas, cramping, and irregular bowel movements are part of daily life. Understanding how to manage these issues requires an understanding of the mechanisms behind the symptoms, alongside practical and personalised strategies to overcome them.

In this article, we’ll explore some common digestive problems and how we go about investigating them before attempting to manage them. As with any condition, it’s crucial to fully understand what is going on before tackling the issue. This way, we avoid spending time on strategies that fail to address the root cause.

Investigating other causes

Before exploring strategies to manage IBS or other digestive issues, it’s essential to rule out any underlying conditions that might be contributing to your symptoms. Gastrointestinal issues like bloating, cramping, and changes in bowel habits can sometimes be signs of more serious health concerns, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), coeliac disease, or even certain infections.

If you're experiencing persistent symptoms, especially if they are new or worsening, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. This is especially important if you notice:

• Significant changes in bowel habits, such as sudden constipation, diarrhoea, or a shift in stool consistency.
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite.
• Blood in the stool or dark, tarry stools.
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain that doesn’t improve.
• Fatigue or other systemic symptoms, like fever.

These symptoms warrant a thorough medical evaluation to rule out other causes and ensure there isn’t a more serious condition requiring treatment. Your doctor may recommend tests such as blood work, stool samples, or imaging studies to help identify the root cause.

What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Since there is no specific test to diagnose IBS, it’s essential to first rule out other potential conditions through medical evaluation. Only after these are excluded can a diagnosis of IBS be considered likely.

For many, certain foods and lifestyle factors can contribute to bloating and IBS. Recognising and managing these triggers is key to feeling your best. IBS is often triggered by a combination of factors, including:

• Stress: The brain-gut connection plays a significant role in IBS, meaning stress can exacerbate symptoms.
• Food sensitivities: Certain foods and ingredients can irritate the gut and cause flare-ups, for instance, wheat, dairy (lactose), artificial sweeteners, and some high-fibre foods despite being beneficial from a nutritional perspective.
• Hormonal changes: Many people find their symptoms are worse during certain times of the menstrual cycle.
• Gut bacteria imbalance: Changes in the microbiome (the bacteria in your gut) can influence IBS.

Understanding bloating

Bloating is a feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen. It is often caused by gas buildup in the stomach or intestines and can be triggered by overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming foods your body struggles to digest, otherwise known as FODMAPs, which we explore in another article. While bloating can be uncomfortable, it's usually temporary.

When to explore IBS management strategies

Once more serious conditions are ruled out, and your doctor has confirmed that IBS or functional digestive issues are likely, you can begin to explore strategies to manage these symptoms. The goal at this stage is to find lifestyle and dietary changes that work for you to minimise discomfort and improve your digestive health.

In our article on managing IBS, we’ll explore some of the evidence-based diet and lifestyle strategies, including the low FODMAP diet, which we will explore in a later article.

Remember that IBS is highly individual, and what works for one person may not work for another; emphasising the importance of a personalised approach. Working with a healthcare professional can help ensure that your management plan is safe and effective.

Summary:

Understanding IBS and its triggers is essential for managing its symptoms effectively. By ruling out other potential causes and working closely with healthcare professionals, you can develop a personalised approach to relieve discomfort and improve your digestive health. IBS affects everyone differently, so it's important to tailor strategies to your individual needs. Keep an eye out for more guidance on managing IBS, including insights into dietary and lifestyle changes like the Low FODMAP diet.