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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common group of symptoms relating to the bowel.
It is classified as a functional disorder because it reflects how the gut functions rather why it is happening.
IBS symptoms can vary widely and may change over time. The most common symptoms include:
Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: typically cramping and usually relieved by bowel movements.
Bloating and Gas: a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen sometimes relieved by passing wind.
Diarrhoea: Frequent, loose, or watery stools, often with an urgent need to have a bowel movement.
Constipation: Infrequent, hard, or lumpy stools, which may be difficult to pass.
Alternating Symptoms: a combination of alternating diarrhoea and constipation.
Changes in bowel habits: Changes in frequency or variability in consistency of stools, including mucus in the stool.
Associated symptoms: Other symptoms might include nausea, fatigue.
Similar symptoms can also be caused by other bowel conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or even bowel cancer.
It is important to reviewed by a doctor if you have these symptoms.
Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Managing IBS typically involves a combination of dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and medications.
IBS management is personalised, and what works for one person may not work for another. A combination of approaches is often required to achieve symptom relief and improve quality of life.
Your specialist gastroenterologist will discuss the treatment options that may be right for you.
Dietary Changes
Fibre Management: Soluble fibre (e.g., from psyllium) can help with constipation, while insoluble fibre (e.g. from whole-wheat flour, nuts, beans and vegetables, such), might worsen symptoms for some patients.
Avoiding Trigger Foods: Common triggers include high-fat foods, caffeine, alcohol, and certain vegetables. Keeping a food diary can help identify personal triggers.
FODMAP: A low FODMAP diet involves avoiding fermentable carbohydrates that can exacerbate symptoms. Referral to a dietitian may be helpful.
Lifestyle Modifications
Stress Management: Techniques such as relaxation exercises, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and mindfulness can help manage stress, which may alleviate IBS symptoms.
Hypnotherapy: Some patients find relief from IBS symptoms through guided hypnotherapy.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity can improve bowel function and reduce stress.
Medications
Medications may be useful for some patient with IBS. Your specialist will work with to identify which options may be helpful for you. Medications discussed may include:
Antidiarroheals: Loperamide to reduce diarrhoea and urgency.
Antispasmodics: Mebeverine or other antispasmodic medications to relieve cramping and pain.
Laxatives: Osmotic laxatives like macrogol (molaxole) can aid in relieving constipation.
Peppermint oil: Can help with bloating and pain.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): Amitriptyline or nortriptyline can help reduce pain and improve overall symptoms.
Antibiotics: Rifaximin may be helpful for some patients, but is not currently subsidised.
Find A Specialist
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