Living with and Managing IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive condition that affects the way the bowel functions. While IBS doesn’t cause permanent damage to the digestive system, it can impact your daily life, causing discomfort, inconvenience, and significant ongoing symptoms. But, there is some good news! With the right support and management strategies, many people control their symptoms to improve their quality of life.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

• What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
• What Causes IBS?
• Getting a Diagnosis
• Managing IBS Symptoms
• Diet and Nutrition
• Managing Stress and Lifestyle Factors
• Medical Treatment Options
• When to See Your GP
• How Laurimar Medical Centre Can Help

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder. This means the bowel appears normal but doesn’t function as it should. Symptoms can vary from person to person and may come and go over time. They can also flare up during periods of stress or after consuming certain foods.

Common IBS symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating and excessive gas
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Alternating diarrhoea and constipation
• A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying

What Causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS isn’t fully understood. However, experts believe several factors may contribute. Symptoms can also overlap with other digestive disorders, making it important to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis.

IBS symptoms may include:

• Changes in gut motility
• Increased sensitivity of the digestive system
• Stress and anxiety
• Gut microbiome imbalances
• Previous gastrointestinal infections

Getting a Diagnosis

There isn’t a single test for IBS diagnosis. However, your GP at Laurimar Medical Centre can review your symptoms and medical history, and may recommend tests to exclude other conditions, such as coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or food intolerances.

Seeking professional advice is particularly important if you experience symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, rectal bleeding, anaemia, or persistent changes in bowel habits.

Managing IBS Symptoms

Diet and Nutrition

For many people, dietary changes are one of the most effective ways to improve IBS symptoms.

Common dietary strategies may include:

• Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
• Eating regular meals
• Staying well hydrated
• Limiting excessive caffeine and alcohol intake
• Working with an accredited practising dietitian

Some patients may also benefit from a low FODMAP diet, which involves temporarily reducing certain fermentable carbohydrates that can trigger digestive symptoms. This approach should be undertaken with professional guidance to ensure nutritional adequacy.

Managing Stress and Lifestyle Factors

Stress does not cause IBS, but it can make symptoms worse. Strategies that can help you manage your IBS symptoms include:

• Regular physical activity
• Adequate sleep
• Relaxation techniques
• Mindfulness practices
• Stress management strategies

Medical Treatment Options

Your GP may recommend medications to help manage abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, or bloating, depending on your symptoms. Treatment plans can be tailored to your needs and may change over time as symptoms evolve.

When to See Your GP

Living with ongoing symptoms can be frustrating, but you don’t need to manage them alone. If you’re experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort, bloating, or changes in bowel habits, it’s important to seek medical advice. Early assessment can help identify whether symptoms are related to IBS or another digestive condition requiring treatment.

How Laurimar Medical Centre Can Help

At Laurimar Medical Centre, our GPs will work with you to identify your symptoms and rule out other conditions. Contact us to develop a personalised plan to manage your IBS and improve your quality of life today.