Common Ailments

IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Symptoms differ between individuals and may vary from time to time but will usually include repeated abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness or bloating and a change or disruption of bowel habit. This can range from constipation to diarrhoea or can alternate between the two.

The pain is usually felt in one of the four corners of the abdomen, especially the lower left corner. It is sometimes brought on by eating and is often relieved by going to the toilet.

Other symptoms can include burping, nausea, headache, tiredness and a sense of incomplete emptying after going to the toilet. Up to 60% of people with the syndrome have psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression.

IBS is extremely common and affects approximately 20% of people in the UK. It is twice as common in women as in men and usually appears in early adulthood.

WHAT CAUSES IBS?

The precise cause of IBS is unknown. Research has shown that the bowel in IBS sufferers is more sensitive than usual and this sensitivity sets off a reaction, which causes the symptoms. IBS often begins during a period of emotional stress and symptoms worsen in stressful situations.

The disorder sometimes develops after an infection of the gut (gastroenteritis). An allergy or intolerance to certain foods can also be the cause.

TREATMENT

DIET

Dietary changes can help to lessen the symptoms of IBS and can include:

• Avoiding too many fatty and/or highly spiced foods
• Avoiding excess alcohol
• Reducing intake of caffeine
• Avoiding products containing sorbitol (an artificial sweetener)
• Avoiding eating large meals; eat small meals at regular intervals throughout the day
• Increasing the intake of dietary fibre to help regulate bowel action and to avoid constipation
• Specific foods may be the cause of flare-ups. You may find it helpful to keep a 'food diary' and record your symptoms. If you are considering an exclusion diet e.g. wheat free or milk free, you may wish to discuss this first with your Pharmacist, GP and/or Dietician.

It is advisable to keep a note of the offending foods so that these can be eliminated from the diet.

DRUG TREATMENTS

Antispasmodic drugs are effective in quieting down the excessive bowel activity and relieving the pain. It is advisable to check with the pharmacist before taking these.

Effective anti-diarrhoeal drugs such as loperamide can be used to treat diarrhoea, particularly if it is limiting activity, mobility and lifestyle. Constipation may require a laxative; an osmotic laxative is preferred over stimulant laxatives.

If stress, anxiety or depression is playing a significant role in the condition, it is advisable to see your GP who may prescribe a course of antidepressants or suggest counselling in stress management.

DON'T PANIC!

IBS sufferers can be assured that the disorder does NOT lead to the development of more serious conditions such as ulcerative colitis or bowel cancer. In many cases symptomatic treatment is all that is required and regular medication is not necessary.

If you have further concerns about IBS talk to your Numark Pharmacist who will be able to help.

Numark have leaflets available if you require information about constipation or anti-diarrhoeal treatments.