Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Overview
IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It can cause stomach cramps, bloating and diarrhoea. It’s usually a lifelong condition but lifestyle changes and medicine can help.
Symptoms
Stomach pain/cramps (eased by pooing); bloating; diarrhea/constipation (or mixed). Symptoms fluctuate. Mucus in poo.
Causes
Gut-brain interaction issue; oversensitive gut nerves; stress; family history; food triggers. Not inflammatory bowel disease.
Treatment
Diet: cook fresh; regular meals; probiotics. Low FODMAP diet. Meds: buscopan (cramps); loperamide (diarrhea); laxatives.
Prevention
Keep food diary to find triggers (spicy/fatty/alcohol); reduce stress; exercise; oatmeal (for bloating).
When to see a doctor
See GP if: weight loss; bleeding; hard lump. Urgent: rapid change in bowel habit >6 weeks.