Improving Health

SUBSCRIBE

What Triggers IBS and How to Prevent It

Posted by Katrina Christianson on April 1, 2022
Share


IBS_Blog

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habit in the absence of a specific and unique organic pathology. Since treatment is complicated, it’s important to work with your doctor and a dietitian.

What is IBS?
IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, occurs in the large intestine and is a disruption in the way the brain and gut communicate with each other causing functional issues. Having IBS does not increase your risk for other diseases or damage your intestines, but it is long-term and needs to be managed to decrease interference with daily life. Damage can only occur from excessive pushing from constipation or prolonged diarrhea causing hemorrhages. There are periods when symptoms are more severe and other times with no symptoms.

What Causes IBS?
Unfortunately, the cause is unknown. It is not caused by diet or stress, although proper management of diet and stress can help ease symptoms and reduce flare-ups. But other things can play a role in the development of IBS such as:

  • Overgrowth of certain bacteria in the gut & lack of bacteria variety.
  • Improper gut nervous system function
  • Erratic intestinal muscle contractions
  • Serious gastrointestinal infection
  • Chronic or serious stress
  • Traumatic events in youth
  • Genetics
  • History of mental illness

Symptoms of IBS:

  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Gas
  • Bloating

Treatment

  • Dietary: There are a wide range of dietary changes you can make to help reduce symptoms:
    • Follow a low FODMAP diet. This diet is low in Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols. [For more info on FODMAPs check out: fodmapfriendly.com, funwithoutfodmaps.com, and monashfodmap.com]
    • Follow a low lactose diet
    • Increase probiotics & prebiotics
    • For diarrhea- reduce caffeine and high fat foods
    • Increase fiber intake: soluble, insoluble, or a mix of both. Fiber is best in food form, but your doctor may recommend a fiber supplement.
  • Medications: (only when prescribed by your doctor)
    • Laxatives
    • Smooth muscle relaxants
    • Antidiarrheal medications
    • Low dose anti-depressants
    • Antibiotics
    • Pain medications
  • Alternative Treatments:
    • Relaxation techniques to lower stress (like breathing, meditation, prayer)
    • Exercise
    • Psychotherapy
    • Biofeedback
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
    • Acupuncture
    • Massage

Tips
Find a Provider you have a good relationship with to get the best-individualized treatment possible.
Treatment for IBS varies by person because IBS symptoms are highly individualized so it may take time to find the treatment that is right for you.

Since treatment is complicated, it’s important to work with your doctor and a dietitian as you may need a combination of different treatments. It’s important to speak with your doctor if you have other health problems or are taking medications before starting a treatment to avoid interactions or complications. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist.

You also need to see a doctor to rule out other serious diagnoses, especially if you have any of these symptoms: unexpected weight loss, bleeding, severe pain, altered menstrual cycle, difficulty conceiving, or fever.

Stress management can also help reduce symptoms, many people notice their symptoms start when a stressful situation or period occurs. Good sleep is vital to managing symptoms and stress.

 

Get your health checked with your dedicated CareATC provider for treatment options today.

Make an Appointment

 

References

  1. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/irritable-bowel-syndrome-treatment

  2. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/treatment

  3. https://aboutibs.org/treatment/

  4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360016

  5. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes

  6. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4342-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs

  7. https://aboutibs.org/what-is-ibs/what-causes-ibs/

Katrina Christianson

About The Author

Katrina Christianson

Katrina Christianson is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Health Coach at CareATC. She loves helping people achieve their health goals by making gradual behavior and lifestyle changes. Katrina believes in addressing not only the physical but also mental barriers to better health.

Post Topics Healthy Lifestyles