Diagnosed with IBS?

The facts about Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you’ve been diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, it may be some consolation to know that you’re not alone in your suffering. IBS is a very common bowel condition – a third of all adults in the UK experience IBS symptoms at some point in their lives, and up to 20% of the population suffer for prolonged periods.

What causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood but what we do know is that sufferers have a more sensitive bowel than usual, leading to the symptoms associated with IBS.

 

Here are the most common factors which can make your bowel become more sensitive:

 

• Stress
  There’s a general opinion that IBS can be aggravated by stress and anxiety. So a particularly stressful situation, such as divorce, bereavement or problems at work, can affect the natural rhythm of your digestive system.
• Illness
  IBS can also be brought on by an illness you’ve suffered. For example, if you contracted a severe gastrointestinal infection (such as dysentery) and you now experience persistent problems with your bowel, it’s possible that your infection triggered the IBS.
• Diet
  IBS can also be triggered by a diet that’s low in fibre and high in fat and refined foods. The way you eat is a factor too: grabbing a bit 'on the run’ and not having regular meal times will affect the way your bowel works.
• Hormones
  For women, hormonal changes such as during menstruation can also make IBS symptoms worse.