Irritable Bowel Syndrome (or ‘IBS’), is a collection of symptoms that result from abnormal functioning in the bowel.
If you have IBS, you are not alone! Approximately 20% of the Australian population experience IBS symptoms – The Gut Foundation, 2022.
Symptoms:
According to The Mayo Clinic (2022), symptoms are usually present for a long time – the most common include:
- Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is related to passing a bowel movement;
- Changes in appearance of bowel movement;
- Severe constipation of chronic diarrhoea;
- Excessive flatulence;
Triggers:
Symptoms of IBS can be triggered by:
- Food – including wheat, dairy products, citrus fruits, beans, cabbage, milk or carbonated drinks;
- Stress – while stress can aggravate symptoms, it doesn’t cause them.
Causes:
The exact cause of IBS isn’t known, however factors that play a role include:
- Muscle contractions of the intestine;
- Nervous system abnormalities;
- Severe infection;
- Early life stress;
- Changes in gut microbes;
IBS can be debilitating both in the workplace and in private life. If you are concerned about any consistent symptoms, visit your GP to discuss.