IBS-Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It may be chronic, recurrent diarrhea, or alternatively constipation. Some people have both diarrhea and constipation, just at different times.
IBS with diarrhea is sometimes referred to as IBS-D.
IBS sufferers with diarrhea often have multiple symptoms:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Sudden urges to have bowel movements
- Gas
- Loose stools
- Feeling of being unable to completely empty at bowel movements
- Nausea.
Who gets IBS-D?
Females are more likely to have it than males, and it’s more common in adults under 50. If you have a family member with IBS, your odds of getting IBS or IBS-D do go up.
What causes IBS-D?
The causes of IBS are not known. With IBS, your colon is more sensitive than normal. It can react to things like stress, bacteria, and even certain foods. Researches are looking at possible causes such as:
- A dysfunction in the brain-gut connection with possible neurotransmitter involvement
- Food sensitivities
- Gut dysbiosis
- Idiopathic bile acid malabsorption (I-BAM)
- Inflammation in the lining of the gut
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
What is the treatment for IBS-D?
If you think that you might have IBS-D, please make an appointment with your GP. There are other serious health conditions that share many of the same symptoms with IBS-D so it is important to rule these out.
If your GP concludes that you have IBS-D, they will likely work with you on a treatment plan. They may recommend over-the-counter treatments or prescribe you a medication to relieve your symptoms in the short term.
Mast cells could be playing a role in your IBS-D. Read more information on what Mast Cells are and why we believe our IBS Advanced Formula + could stabilise mast cells.
We strongly recommend that you also follow a Low FODMAP Diet. Our recommended app is the Monash University Low FODMAP Diet app. This should help you to identify and avoid IBS trigger foods.
Stress can have a profound effect on the gut, so we recommend IBS Sufferers devote part of each day to activities that reduces stress. Activities such as Yoga and mindfulness can help.