If you’ve ever experienced bloating, abdominal pain, or changes in your bowel habits, you might be familiar with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). We recently spoke with Dr Reshma Rakshit, a Consultant Gastroenterologist, to shed light on this common condition and provide guidance on managing it effectively. Here’s what you need to know about IBS, its symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a digestive disorder characterised by a combination of symptoms affecting the bowel. These symptoms include changes in bowel habits and abdominal pain. IBS is surprisingly common, affecting around one in ten people in the UK. Although the exact cause of IBS remains unclear, understanding the condition can help you manage it better and seek appropriate medical advice.
Types of IBS
IBS is generally classified into three types, depending on the predominant symptoms:
- Diarrhoea-predominant IBS: characterised by frequent, loose bowel movements.
- Constipation-predominant IBS: involves difficulty passing stools and infrequent bowel movements.
- Mixed IBS: features a combination of diarrhoea and constipation.
If you experience these symptoms, your doctor will likely perform tests to rule out other conditions. Blood tests might be done to check for celiac disease or anaemia, and stool tests can help identify inflammation in the bowel.
Recognising IBS symptoms
The symptoms of IBS can vary but commonly include:
- Abdominal pain: often relieved after a bowel movement.
- Bloating: a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
- Urgency: a sudden need to use the toilet.
- Change in bowel habits: alternating between diarrhoea and constipation.
Risk factors for IBS
While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, several factors may contribute to its development:
- Diet: certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms. Common triggers include spicy or heavy meals, alcohol, and irregular meal times.
- Stress: emotional stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms. The condition is now recognised as a gut-brain interaction disorder, meaning both the digestive system and brain are involved.
Although genetics may play a role, no specific genetic tests are available for IBS. It’s important to consider lifestyle factors and seek professional help if needed.
When to seek medical help
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice:
- Blood in stool: any sign of bleeding from the bowel should be investigated.
- Unintentional weight loss: significant weight loss without a clear reason.
- Family history: a strong family history of bowel cancer may require further examination.
Managing IBS
Managing IBS can be challenging due to its multifactorial nature. Here are some strategies to help manage the condition:
- Food diary: keeping a record of what you eat and drink can help identify specific triggers. Common triggers include high-fat or spicy foods and certain carbohydrate types known as FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols).
- Dietary adjustments: consider working with a dietitian to follow a low FODMAP diet, which involves temporarily eliminating certain foods that are poorly digested and then gradually reintroducing them to pinpoint triggers.
- Stress management: addressing stress through relaxation techniques, therapy, or counselling can significantly impact IBS symptoms. Techniques such as acupuncture, gut-directed hypnotherapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) have been shown to help.
- Regular meals: maintaining regular meal times and avoiding late-night eating can also be beneficial. Ensuring you feel relaxed and happy during meals can make a difference.
Conclusion
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common yet manageable condition with the right approach. Understanding your symptoms, identifying triggers, and working with healthcare professionals can significantly improve your quality of life. If you’re struggling with IBS, consult with a specialist like Dr Reshma Rakshit to receive personalised advice and treatment options tailored to your needs.
Dr Reshma Rakshit is a highly regarded Consultant Gastroenterologist with expertise in managing a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders. She currently practises at leading healthcare institutions across London and Essex. With a compassionate approach and dedication to patient care, Dr Rakshit is committed to helping individuals understand their symptoms and improve their quality of life through personalised treatment plans.
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