What causes IBS?
The precise cause of IBS isn’t always known, partly because it isn’t just one condition.
The cause can be genetic, stress, anxiety, over sensitivity of the gut, certain foods, infections (such as a severe bout of gastroenteritis) or changes to your natural gut microbes. Though it’s often an intolerance to certain foods that triggers flare-ups.
There can also be other factors that play a role in IBS, including muscle contractions in the intestines, poorly coordinated signals between the brain and your intestines, and abnormalities in your nervous system. Early life stress, particularly in childhood, is also thought to have a connection to IBS. Research has also shown that the neurotransmitter: serotonin, may be important in the symptoms of IBS - by altering the function of nerve cells in the bowel and causing changes in pain sensation and bowel function.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
The symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms of IBS include:
- stomach pain or
- cramps
- bloating
- diarrhoea
- a sudden need to go to the toilet
- constipation
These symptoms may get better or worse through the day, and usually link to whether you’ve eaten and if you’ve been to the toilet.
Some other symptoms of IBS that people experience include:
- wind
- passing mucus from your bottom
- tiredness and feeling low on energy
- feeling sick
- backache or muscle aches
- problems with passing urine (you might need to go often, more than normal, have sudden urges to go to the toilet or feel like you can’t fully empty your bladder)
- not feeling in control of when you need to go to the toilet
- incontinence
Can IBS lead to other problems?
Unless it’s being caused by a more severe condition, like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or coeliac disorder (a severe intolerance to gluten in the body), it’s unlikely it will lead to anything more serious. If you have concerns about your symptoms then it’s always best to speak to a clinician.
Some IBS symptoms can lead to other problems. Constipation can lead to haemorrhoids, for example, and diarrhoea to dehydration and problems absorbing vitamins and minerals. These conditions and symptoms can have a major effect on your mental health, confidence and feeling in control of your life.
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