IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects the digestive system, and it is quite common. You may experience symptoms varying from stomach cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhoea and constipation. Your symptoms may come and go, last for a period of time, or you may find that certain things trigger a flare-up.

The exact cause of IBS isn’t yet known, but there are some factors that are common in people with the condition. If you’ve got an abnormality in your digestive system, it may cause discomfort when releasing gas or stool. Your brain won’t send the accurate signals to your intestines which can result in your body overreacting to the digestive process, causing discomfort, constipation and diarrhoea. You’re more prone to developing IBS if you’ve had a serious bout of diarrhoea caused by an infection, or if you’ve got a lot of bacteria harbouring in the intestines. Stressful situations can also be a trigger for IBS in certain people, especially if it occurred during childhood.

Although IBS can’t be cured, there are things that can help you to manage your condition.

Try to cook homemade meals using fresh ingredients.

It’s a good idea to keep a diary of what you eat and if you get any symptoms - this will help you to figure out what food triggers your IBS so you can avoid it.

Probiotics, like yoghurts, may ease your symptoms, too.

If you’re looking to relieve IBS symptoms like diarrhoea, speak to our pharmacist about loperamide; if bloating or gas is an issue, try Buscopan or peppermint oil.

Laxatives can also help if you’re struggling with constipation to get your bowel movements working as they should.

If you want a diarrhoea treatment that works quickly, try an over-the-counter product like loperamide (Imodium) or Pepto-Bismol.

Antibiotics may be given if it’s caused by a bacteria or parasite which you may have gotten from consuming food or water that’s been contaminated.

Diarrhoea that’s caused by a viral infection cannot be treated with antibiotics - you may want to try treatments at home, like eating bland foods, taking probiotics and drinking rice water.