Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the large intestine.
What are the symptoms?
IBS is characterised by abnormal movements in the muscles of the intestine, which cause discomfort and abnormal function, as well as constipation and diarrhoea alternately. IBS can also provoke abdominal pain, gas, bloating and changes in bowel habits.
Causes of irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is usually associated with stress-related problems, although it has been shown that stress does not provoke it, but rather increases its effects. The exact causes of IBS are not clear, although it may occur after an intestinal infection.
This condition is often confused with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which, unlike IBS, is caused by the abnormal structure of the colon.
Can it be prevented?
IBS is different in everyone and while the condition itself cannot truly be prevented, it can be avoided after diagnosis through certain lifestyle changes and management of the symptoms. For example, if you have IBS, it is not recommended to skip meals or eat later than you usually do, in addition to not rushing meals or eating too quickly. Avoiding spicy foods or ‘trigger’ foods can also help to keep IBS at bay. Many people with IBS prefer to cook their own meals as it means they can fully control what they are eating, thus avoiding triggers.
What is the treatment?
For the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome, there is no specific test, but it is necessary for the doctor to rule out other conditions in which symptoms are similar. Therefore your doctor may arrange for blood tests or stool samples to be taken to make sure the right diagnosis is given.
Although there is no cure for IBS once diagnosed, as it is a chronic condition, certain measures can help to alleviate the symptoms:
- Try to find ways to help you relax
- Get plenty of exercise
- Keep a food diary to help you monitor triggers
- Eat foods which are easier for you to digest
- Use over-the-counter medication to control symptoms such as cramp and diarrhoea
IBS symptoms: could they mean something else?
By Dr Lisa Das
2020-03-07
Symptoms aren't always what they seem. Leading consultant gastroenterologist Dr Lisa Das tells us about 4 other conditions to watch out for that share the same symptoms as irritable bowel syndrome. See more
Living with constipation in IBS
By Dr Aathavan Loganayagam
2020-03-06
Do you live with IBS and also suffer from constipation too? Our expert gastroenterologist Dr Aathavan Loganayagam is here with his tips on how you can relieve or improve bouts of constipation. See more
Is bloating ever a sign of something serious?
By Dr John Martin
2020-03-06
Bloating is a common sensation that many of us have experienced. While it's very rare that it's a sign of something serious, it's valuable to know when to see a specialist for advice. Dr John Martin, a gastroenterologist, explains the causes of bloating so that you know when to seek medical help. See more
The gut-brain connection: how our emotions play a direct role in the health of our digestive system
By Professor Owen Epstein
2020-03-06
Have certain situations ever made you feel "sick to your stomach"? How often have you felt "butterflies" or decided to just "go with your gut"? These expressions exist for a reason; they reflect an important connection between our brain and gut, highlighting how sensitive our digestive system is to our emotions such as anxiety, stress and even depression. Professor Owen Epstein, a pioneering professor of gastroenterology, explains more. See more
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Dr Andrew Fagbemi
Paediatric gastroenterologyExpert in:
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- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
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Dr Assad Butt
PaediatricsExpert in:
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Mr T Adnan Alam
Colorectal surgeryExpert in:
- Laparoscopy
- Colorectal cancer
- Colonoscopy
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
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