Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s a chronic condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. In this blog post, I will delve into the various types of IBS, its potential triggers and the common symptoms people experience. Understanding IBS symptoms is the first step towards managing it effectively. Answers to FAQs about IBS can be found in other blogs on my website

Types of IBS

IBS is unique to sufferers. It’s not a one-size-fits-all condition. It can be categorized into different types based on the predominant symptoms:

1. IBS-D (diarrhoea-predominant): Individuals with IBS-D experience frequent episodes of diarrhoea. This can be accompanied by urgency and a constant need to use the toilet
2. IBS-C (constipation-predominant): IBS-C is characterized by infrequent bowel movements and hard, lumpy stools. People with this type often struggle with abdominal discomfort and a feeling of incomplete evacuation
3. IBS-M (mixed-type): Some individuals may experience a mix of both diarrhoea and constipation, with their symptoms varying over time
4. IBS-U (unsubtyped): This category is used when the symptoms do not clearly fit into any of the above types

IBS triggers

While the exact cause of IBS is still not fully understood. However, there are several triggers and contributing factors that can exacerbate symptoms:

1. Diet: Certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms. Common culprits include high-fat foods, dairy products, caffeine, artificial sweeteners and carbonated beverages. A low FODMAP diet can help reduce symptom severity
2. Stress: Emotional and psychological factors, such as stress and anxiety, can play a significant role in IBS flare-ups. Stress management techniques, like meditation and yoga, can help mitigate symptoms
3. Infections: Gastrointestinal infections can sometimes lead to post-infectious IBS. This occurs when an initial infection triggers chronic symptoms
4. Gut Microbiota: The gut microbiome, comprising trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in IBS. An imbalance in gut bacteria can contribute to symptoms
5. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially in women, can influence IBS symptoms. Some women find their symptoms worsen during their menstrual cycle

Common IBS symptoms

The symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person and may range from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:

1. Abdominal pain and discomfort: Persistent abdominal pain or cramping is a very common IBS symptom. This pain is often relieved by having a bowel movement
2. Bloating: Many individuals with IBS experience bloating, which can be uncomfortable and distressing
3. Altered bowel habits: IBS can lead to changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation or both. These changes can be unpredictable, so make work and social life difficult
4. Gas: Excessive gas production and the passing of gas are common symptoms of IBS and can make sufferers feel very anti-social
5. Urgency: IBS can cause a sudden and urgent need to use the toilet, especially in individuals with IBS-D
6. Mucus in stools: Some people with IBS notice mucus in their stools, which is a common symptom
7. Fatigue: Dealing with the chronic symptoms of IBS can be draining, leading to fatigue and reduced quality of life

When to see your GP

When is the right time to see your GP – if your bowel habits change suddenly, you have blood in your stools or you have sudden weight loss it would be sensible to see your doctor as soon as possible. If you’ve had IBS symptoms for some time, then your doctor may suggest some investigations to rule out other causes for your symptoms. These may be blood tests to detect deficiencies or gluten sensitivity (coeliac disease, for example). If these are inconclusive or you have other risk factors, you may be referred to a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy or endoscopy. Try not to worry though, as a diagnosis of IBS is usually made by ruling out other conditions.

Can a FODMAP Dietitian help improve my IBS symptoms?

In the UK, ~1 in 5 people suffer from IBS symptoms. Many IBS sufferers find an association between their symptoms and the foods they eat. Restricting the diet without professional help can lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially when excluding whole food groups. This also makes social situations difficult and can worsen mental health. The low FODMAP diet is an efficient way of identifying food triggers. It’s tricky to do alone though, so should always be supported with the skills and knowledge of an IBS Dietitian trained in FODMAPs. With support, sufferers can identify their triggers and improve management of IBS symptoms. An IBS/FODMAP dietitian will provide practical ways to help fit the low FODMAP diet into your lifestyle and ensure that you still get a balanced diet. I’m an IBS Dietitian based in Cardiff, but work across the UK. I offer a free initial telephone consultation, so why not arrange a call today.

Conclusion

Understanding IBS symptoms is crucial for those who suffer from this condition. By knowing the types, triggers, and symptoms of IBS, individuals can work with healthcare providers to develop effective management strategies. While there is no cure for IBS, many treatment options are available to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, stress management and medication can all play a role in managing this condition. If you suspect you have IBS or have been diagnosed with it, consulting with a healthcare professional is the first step towards a more comfortable and manageable life with IBS. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey and with the right support and information, you can take control of your IBS.

I usually only advise adults, but for those under 18 years of age, I’d suggest Angharad Banner, Registered Dietitian and her website can be found here.