Everyone has stomach trouble sometimes—bloating, cramping, diarrhea, or constipation. Usually it passes quickly. But if these problems keep coming back, it could be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
IBS is a common, long-term condition that affects the large intestine. It’s not dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable, unpredictable, and frustrating. In the U.S., up to 15% of people experience IBS.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
IBS affects everyone a little differently, but the most common symptoms include:
- Stomach pain or cramping
- Bloating or feeling overly full
- Excess gas
- Diarrhea, constipation, or both
- Mucus in the stool
- Nausea
- Sudden or urgent need to have a bowel movement
“Symptoms often come and go,” explains Jordan Saunders, DO, with Carilion Clinic Family Medicine. “They can also range in severity. Some people may have occasional mild symptoms while others have severe symptoms that can affect daily life and work.”
There are also different types of IBS:
- IBS-D: Mostly diarrhea
- IBS-C: Mostly constipation
- IBS-M: Alternating diarrhea and constipation
The good news is that IBS generally isn’t dangerous and doesn’t cause serious damage.
What causes IBS?
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but several factors are known to play a role, including:
Stress: Your brain and digestive system have a close relationship. Stress, anxiety, or being upset emotionally can make symptoms worse.
Gut sensitivity: People with IBS often have intestines that are more sensitive than normal. Even normal digestion can feel painful.
Intestine contractions: Muscles in the intestines automatically stretch and contract to help move food through the digestive tract. Contractions that are too strong or weak can cause diarrhea, constipation, or pain.
Changes in gut bacteria: Your digestive tract contains trillions of bacteria. An imbalance may contribute to IBS.
Infections: Some people develop IBS after a stomach virus or food poisoning.
Who is most likely to have IBS?
You may be more likely to develop IBS if you:
- Are female (women are affected about twice as often)
- Are under age 50
- Have a family history of IBS
- Have anxiety, depression, or chronic stress
- Had a severe stomach illness
Common IBS triggers
Certain foods and drinks can trigger symptoms, including:
- Dairy products
- Beans
- Cabbage and other cruciferous vegetables
- Wheat and gluten-containing foods
- Fatty or fried foods
- Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
- Carbonated beverages
- Artificial sweeteners
Triggers vary from person to person. Keeping a food diary can help identify yours.
Many women also notice symptoms get worse around their period, suggesting hormones may play a role.
How is IBS diagnosed?
There’s no single test for IBS. Doctors usually diagnose it based on:
- Your symptoms
- How long it’s been going on (typically at least 3 months)
- A physical exam and your medical history
Your doctor may also run tests to rule out other conditions, like:
- Celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Infections
- Thyroid problems
How to manage IBS
There’s no cure, but many people effectively control their symptoms.
1. Change your diet
Helpful strategies include:
- Eating more fiber (especially for constipation)
- Drinking plenty of water
- Limiting caffeine
- Avoiding trigger foods
- Trying a low-FODMAP diet (a special diet that reduces certain hard-to-digest carbohydrates)
2. Reduce stress
Stress is a major trigger. Helpful techniques include:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Yoga (check out our events calendar for free classes!)
- Counseling or therapy
- Relaxation exercises
3. Exercise regularly
Physical activity helps move food through your digestive system and reduces stress. Even walking 20 – 30 minutes daily can help.
4. Improve sleep
“Poor sleep can have a huge impact on the body, including making IBS symptoms worse. Aim for 7 – 9 hours per night,” says Dr. Saunders.
5. Medicines and supplements
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may recommend:
- Fiber supplements
- Stool softeners or anti-diarrheal medicines
- Prescription IBS medicines
- Probiotics
- Peppermint oil capsules (which can help relax intestine muscles)
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you have IBS symptoms that are frequent or severe, or you experience:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in your stool
- Fatigue
- Symptoms that wake you at night
- Symptoms starting after age 50
If you have questions or concerning symptoms, reach out to your family doctor so they can help get you back to feeling your best.
