IBS Gut Health

Symptoms of IBS

IBS can have a wide range of symptoms, including diarrhoea and constipation (or both), stomach cramps and bloating. Symptoms can come and go over time and each episode (called a flare-up) can last for days, weeks or months.

IBS can also cause wind, anal mucus, tiredness, lack of energy, nausea, backache and incontinence (meaning you may not be able to control when you poo). It might also mean you need to urinate suddenly or often, or you have difficulties urinating and feel like you can’t empty your bladder properly. 

You might find that your symptoms are easy to manage some days and much more severe at other times.

Causes of IBS

The precise cause of IBS isn’t yet known, but one possible trigger is food travelling through your gut too slowly or quickly. Oversensitive nerves in the gut are another potential cause, and so is a family history of the condition. IBS flare-ups can be brought on by factors such as drinking caffeine or alcohol, eating certain foods or being anxious or stressed. However, sometimes flare-ups occur for no obvious reason. 

IBS treatments

When you need healthcare advice and support for IBS, you can rely on the healthcare professionals at Pharmacy+Health. Our fully qualified, highly trained experts are here to help you access the treatments you need to manage your symptoms. 

It is important to be aware that there is no single medicine or diet that works for all IBS patients. You can use our IBS consulting services to find the treatment options that are most suitable for you. Depending on the symptoms you experience, you may benefit from taking medicines such as laxatives, anti-diarrhoea treatments or medicines to relieve stomach cramps.

Self-care techniques

There are also certain self-care techniques that may help you to better manage your condition. For example, it is recommended to cook homemade meals using fresh ingredients whenever possible. You may also be advised to keep a food diary to see if you can identify, and then avoid, foods that cause flare-ups. Finding ways to relax and lower your stress levels may help too, and it is important to get plenty of exercise. You may also want to try probiotics to see if they reduce your symptoms. 
Try not to skip or delay meals, and avoid eating quickly. You should also try to avoid lots of processed, spicy or fatty foods, and don’t eat more than three portions of fresh fruit a day. It is also recommended to avoid having more than three cups of coffee or tea per day, and avoid consuming lots of fizzy drinks or alcohol.

Book an appointment at our IBS clinic today

Simply book online to arrange a consultation appointment and treatments for IBS at your local Pharmacy+Health. You can also come to us for help with a range of other common health conditions. Our pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals who can provide clinical advice and recommend the most suitable treatment for you – quickly and conveniently.