Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Constipation is a common condition with a whole range of possible causes
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is very common. In the UK, it is thought that up to 1 in 5 people are affected at some point in their life.
The symptoms can come and go, sometimes settling down by themselves after a few days, but even though there's no cure, there are ways you can manage your IBS with medication and lifestyle changes. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or think you might have IBS, seek medical advice.
Sometimes the symptoms can be so bad that they affect your quality of life.
Common IBS Symptoms
Constipation and diarrhoea
Some people will get one or the other but in some cases people with IBS are constipated some of the time and have diarrhoea other times.
Bloating
The tummy can bloat and swell up, sometimes very obviously, which can be very uncomfortable.
Stomach cramps
These usually go away after you've been to the toilet - they are more of a stabbing or sharp pain than the type of pain you get with a period (for example), and are caused by spasms in your digestive tract.
Wind
Abdominal pain
Some less common additional symptoms include:
- Tiredness
- Depression
- Lower back pain
- Feeling sick
- Needing to urinate more often
For more information about IBS and how to manage it, take a look at www.ibs-relief.co.uk
If you have any concerns about your symptoms or think you might have IBS, seek medical advice