What is IBS? Irritable bowel Syndrome (IBS) is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, with no underlying disease. Known as a ‘functional bowel disorder’, not to be confused with IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).
It is thought that between 10-20% of the UK suffers with IBS, although this figure is likely to be more with many people having not sought medical advice and others deeming their symptoms as normal!
How many times have you heard a friend, family member or even said yourself, “I just feel so bloated all the time?”
So, what are the symptoms of IBS? Symptoms include;
· Bloating
· Gas
· Cramps
· Heartburn
· constipation and/or diarrhea
· Pain the stomach or bowel
· Nausea
· Headaches
· Back pain
Other symptoms that you may or may not know can be associated with IBS include brain fog, fatigue and anxiety. Symptoms of IBS are often worse after eating and the severity of IBS differ from person to person. Common triggers for IBS include spicy food, dairy and caffeine.
There are many potential causes of IBS, these include; food intolerances, imbalance of bacteria including small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), infections, parasites, yeast and fungal overgrowth, low or high stomach acid, issues with the muscles throughout the digestive, hormonal imbalances, diet, lifestyle factors, stress, alcohol, smoking, medication side-effects, the list goes on!
Whilst there is no specific test to diagnose IBS, diagnoses should be based on exclusion of other conditions such as coeliac disease and Inflammatory Bowel Disease, the GP may do this via a blood test, stool sample or in some cases, by using a camera internally.
Treatment for IBS is focused around symptom management. Medications know as anti- spasmodic may be prescribed such as Buscopan or peppermint oil.
As you can see, there are many possible causes of IBS and IBS manifests different for everyone. That’s why I use a personalized approach to supporting my clients, helping them
To understand their condition, and what may have contributed to their IBS in the first place.
How do I do this? I begin my taking a detailed case history, including any symptoms, family history, if there is any diagnosis, medications, lifestyle factors as well as a analyzing a food diary. During the consultation we have the opportunity to talk in depth, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and discuss your case in depth. I don’t just discuss my clients’ symptoms, I like to know how it makes them feel, their struggles and their goals.
Stool testing is one of many tests I use to support my clients. Have you ever wondered just what is going on inside your gut? A comprehensive stool test can give us an insight into our digestive capabilities, the diversity of our gut bugs, the balance of bacteria, is there an over growth of bacteria, yeast or even parasites. Or maybe even a case of not enough of the good guys, all of these are possible drivers of IBS!
If you are looking to get to the root cause of your IBS, look no further and BOOK YOUR FREE 15 minute call to see how I can help you.
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