IBS or irritable bowel syndrome affects around one in five people in Ireland and 700 million worldwide.
Although IBS is a common condition, it is often stigmatised and misunderstood, and the symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life for many patients. The condition can take a toll on people with sufferers carrying spare toilet tissue and researching the location of toilets before going out.
Women are twice as likely to be affected with IBS as men. IBS can be trigged by menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause and endometriosis. Women with IBS are estimated to be at significantly higher risk of undergoing a hysterectomy. IBS can take a toll emotionally also with people feeling depressed, anxious, and having low self-confidence and social isolation can make things worse.
Stress is now known to be a contributor for IBS sufferers. IBS significantly affects the quality of life and patients can end up being isolated from friends, family, colleagues and even their partners as a result of IBS flare-ups.
Top tips for managing IBS
Cook homemade meals and try to use fresh ingredients when you can.
Keep a food diary - record what you eat and any symptoms you get. You will begin to see a pattern. Avoid foods that trigger your IBS.
Find ways to relax such as yoga, breath exercises and reading.
Get plenty of exercise or introduce exercise into your daily routine.
Try a probiotic such as Alflorex.
Talking about IBS with your friends and family might not be easy, but it can make your life easier. By having a more open conversation about IBS, you can reduce your stress and make it easier for people to understand what you are going through. Influencers using platforms such as TikTok are a great way to open the conversation surrounding gut health.
Some facts
One in five Irish people suffer from IBS (700 million worldwide ).
The condition tends to persist long-term.
Women are twice as likely to be affected as men.
It can be affected by menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, and endometriosis. Women with IBS are estimated to be at significantly higher risk of undergoing a hysterectomy
Stress is now known to be a contributor for IBS sufferers.
IBS significantly affects the quality of life and sufferers can end up being isolated from friends, family, colleagues and even their partners as a result of IBS flare-ups
