LIFESTYLE How to Tell If You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Photo by Hanna Postova

Originally Posted On: https://blog.stamfordadvocate.com/lifestyle/2020/06/25/how-to-tell-if-you-have-irritable-bowel-syndrome/

Did you know that up to 15 percent of American adults have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Even more surprising, many sufferers don’t even know they have the condition.

IBS can cause many problems with your digestive system that inconvenience you and make it harder to enjoy a normal life. The disease can have causes such as a bad intestinal infection, problems with gut bacteria, and nervous system issues.

If you want to know how to tell if you have IBS, read on for some common signs.

IBS can make it hard to enjoy eating since you’ll often have a stomach ache after that tasty meal. As one of the most common symptoms of IBS, this discomfort can range from a dull ache to stabbing sharp pains.

Sometimes, you can get rid of the pain if you have a bowel movement. Unfortunately, it can persist longer in other cases.

While not everybody experiences this, having chronic constipation is a common complaint if you have irritable bowel syndrome. This means you’ll regularly have a bowel movement less than three times weekly.

Further, you’ll find it hard to pass your stools when you do get to use the toilet. You may find the need to strain or feel the urge to use medications like laxatives. Your stools often are hard and may also have mucous in them.

On the flip side, you can experience diarrhea as a common IBS sign. While going to the bathroom daily isn’t a problem, passing loose stools many times a day can indicate a problem a doctor should investigate further.

Your diarrhea may also come with severe stomach cramps. If this IBS symptom gets left untreated, you can experience dehydration that can be serious.

Poor digestion and other signs like constipation can lead to further issues with your intestines. You may notice that your stomach looks bloated after a meal, and you may feel a frequent need to pass gas.

Both these IBS signs and symptoms not only cause discomfort but can also lead to embarrassment. However, luckily you can find treatment options that help.

Another one of the telltale signs of IBS is a mix of diarrhea and constipation that can switch back and forth when you least expect it.

For example, you might have a random day where you’re driving your car and need to find a bathroom quickly since you feel an urgent need to have a bowel movement. On the other hand, you might struggle to use the bathroom at all on other days of the week.

If you experience this, seek IBS treatment as soon as possible.

Once you know how to tell if you have IBS, you can try talking to your doctor if you notice the common symptoms.

While IBS usually doesn’t go away, you have several treatment options to consider. Your doctor can find prescription medications, offer dietary counseling, or even suggest techniques like biofeedback to help with your digestion.

For more advice on how to improve your health, be sure to check out our other posts.