IBS
Effective treatments when your stomach is irritable and grumpy.
Stomach cramped in knots? Untie and loosen with our range of antispasmodics
Have you tried everything but still struggling? Speak to our coaches or our compounding experts for a unique solution.
Find the right IBS treatment for you
View All Products
What you should know about IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. It is a chronic condition that requires long-term management.
The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a combination of factors, including abnormal muscle contractions in the intestine, increased sensitivity of the digestive system, stress, and certain foods.
Common symptoms of IBS include cramping or abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between diarrhea and constipation. Symptoms can vary in severity and may change over time.
IBS is typically diagnosed based on symptoms, medical history, and by ruling out other conditions. A doctor may perform tests such as blood tests, stool tests, or a colonoscopy to exclude other causes of digestive issues.
Treatment for IBS often includes dietary changes, stress management, and medications such as antispasmodics (e.g., Alverine Citrate, Mebeverine, Buscopan), laxatives, anti-diarrheal medications, and sometimes antidepressants. Probiotics and other supplements may also be recommended.
Yes, diet plays a crucial role in managing IBS. Many people find relief by following a low FODMAP diet, avoiding trigger foods, and eating smaller, more frequent meals. Keeping a food diary can help identify foods that exacerbate symptoms.
The FODMAP diet is a dietary approach designed to help people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other digestive disorders manage their symptoms. FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols. These are types of carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and can be easily fermented by gut bacteria, leading to gas, bloating, pain, and diarrhea.
Key Components of the FODMAP Diet:
- Oligosaccharides: Found in foods like wheat, rye, onions, garlic, and legumes.
- Disaccharides: Found in lactose-containing foods like milk, yogurt, and soft cheese.
- Monosaccharides: Found in foods high in fructose, such as apples, honey, and high-fructose corn syrup.
- Polyols: Sugar alcohols found in foods like stone fruits (e.g., plums, cherries), and artificial sweeteners like sorbitol and mannitol.
The FODMAP Diet Process:
- Elimination Phase: All high-FODMAP foods are removed from the diet for a period of 4-6 weeks to reduce symptoms.
- Reintroduction Phase: FODMAPs are gradually reintroduced one at a time to identify which types cause symptoms.
- Personalization Phase: A long-term diet plan is developed based on the individual’s tolerance to different FODMAPs, allowing for better management of IBS symptoms.
Purpose:
The FODMAP diet aims to reduce the intake of specific carbohydrates that can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals, thereby improving their quality of life by managing bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation more effectively.
It is recommended to follow the FODMAP diet under the guidance of a healthcare professional or dietitian to ensure it is done correctly and to maintain nutritional balance.
You should seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent symptoms, significant weight loss, unexplained fatigue, or blood in your stool. These could be signs of a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Additional information
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome, commonly known as IBS, is a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. It is characterized by a group of symptoms that often occur together, including abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation. While IBS can be uncomfortable and impact daily life, it is not life-threatening and does not lead to more serious diseases.
What causes irritable bowel syndrome?
The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to a combination of factors, including:
- Abnormal gut motility: IBS may result from abnormal contractions in the muscles of the intestines, leading to cramping, diarrhea, or constipation.
- Gut-brain interaction: The brain and gut are closely connected, and stress or anxiety can disrupt this communication, leading to IBS symptoms.
- Increased sensitivity: People with IBS may have a heightened sensitivity to pain or discomfort in the digestive tract.
- Diet and food sensitivities: Certain foods, such as those high in fat or carbohydrates, as well as caffeine and alcohol, can trigger IBS symptoms.
- Hormonal changes: Hormones, particularly in women, may play a role in IBS, as symptoms often worsen during menstrual periods.
- Infections or bacterial overgrowth: A history of gastrointestinal infections or an imbalance in gut bacteria may contribute to IBS.
What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
IBS symptoms can vary widely from person to person, but they typically include:
- Abdominal pain or cramping: Often relieved after a bowel movement.
- Bloating and gas: A feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
- Diarrhoea or constipation: Some people with IBS experience frequent diarrhoea, while others may suffer from constipation or alternate between the two.
- Mucus in stool: Some individuals with IBS may notice mucus in their stool.
- Changes in bowel habits: This includes irregular bowel movements, such as frequent urges or the sensation of incomplete evacuation.
How to treat irritable bowel syndrome
Treatment for IBS typically involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and medications to help manage symptoms effectively. Here are some of the most common treatments available:
- Dietary adjustments: Modifying your diet is a key approach to managing IBS. Many people find relief by following a low FODMAP diet, which limits certain carbohydrates that can cause bloating and discomfort. Keeping a food diary to identify and avoid trigger foods can also be beneficial.
- Medications: Depending on your specific symptoms, various medications may be recommended by UK-registered prescribers at MedicalMojo.co.uk:
Antispasmodics:
- Alverine citrate (60mg and 120mg): This medication helps relax the muscles in the gut, reducing painful spasms and cramps.
- Mebeverine (135mg Tablets): Another effective antispasmodic, mebeverine works by relaxing the intestinal muscles, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with IBS.
- Hyoscine (Buscopan 10mg): Buscopan is specifically designed to target cramping pains in the stomach and intestines by relaxing the muscles in the digestive system.
Laxatives:
For those with constipation-predominant IBS, laxatives may be prescribed to ease bowel movements and relieve discomfort.
Anti-diarrhoeal medications:
If you suffer from diarrhoea-predominant IBS, medications like loperamide can help control frequent bowel movements and reduce urgency.
Antidepressants:
Low doses of certain antidepressants, particularly tricyclic antidepressants or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help manage chronic pain and improve bowel function in some individuals with IBS.
Probiotics:
These supplements contain beneficial bacteria that can help restore balance to your gut flora, potentially alleviating some IBS symptoms.
Over-the-counter options:
For mild symptoms, over-the-counter treatments like peppermint oil capsules may offer relief by relaxing the muscles of the bowel.
Incorporating these treatments into your daily routine, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, can help you manage IBS more effectively and improve your quality of life.
How to prevent irritable bowel syndrome
While IBS cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can help manage and reduce symptoms:
- Maintain a balanced diet: Eat regular, balanced meals high in fibre and low in fat. Avoid trigger foods that worsen symptoms.
- Manage stress: Engage in stress-relief activities such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise to reduce the impact of stress on your gut.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support digestion and avoid dehydration.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help regulate bowel movements and reduce stress.
- Monitor food sensitivities: Keep track of foods that trigger symptoms and avoid them.
When to seek medical attention
If you experience persistent or severe IBS symptoms that interfere with your daily life, it’s important to seek medical advice. Additionally, if you notice any of the following, consult a healthcare provider:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe abdominal pain
- Blood in stool
- Persistent diarrhoea or constipation
- Symptoms not improving with treatment
These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.
Buy online from Medical Mojo
At Medical Mojo, we offer a range of treatments to help manage the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Our UK registered prescribers can provide expert advice and prescribe the most suitable medications for your condition. Whether you need antispasmodics, laxatives, or probiotics, you can conveniently buy online from MedicalMojo.co.uk with fast and discreet delivery. Take control of your IBS symptoms with our trusted treatments and regain your quality of life.
BSc Pharmacy, Independent Prescriber, PgDip Endocrinology, MSc Endocrinology, PgDip Infectious Diseases
Independent prescriber, Superintendent pharmacist.
Medical coach.
