Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Causes, Symptoms & Treatments!

Constant stomach aches? Maybe you have IBS!

Did you know, worldwide it’s estimated that 10-15% of the population has IBS.

We all know there is nothing enjoyable about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Sufferers struggle with an array of gastrointestinal symptoms that leave them feeling very uncomfortable and, in some cases afraid to leave their homes. There is good news, treatments are available to help those with IBS lead happy and functional lives.

Patients with this particular syndrome often complain of the following: pain, gas, diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. They are often related to spasms occurring within the large intestine. All of the above symptoms, are somewhat uncomfortable and can be very inconvenient. Fortunately, they are not life-threatening. While research has identified some common risk factors, no one truly knows the indefinite cause of IBS. Often causes are involved with, mild inflammation, infections, disruptions in the nervous system communications, intestinal muscle contractions and imbalances in the amount of good and healthy bacteria in the gut.

IBS is more common among females than males and is more common to people under the age of 50. Researchers believe that there may also be a genetic element, people are more likely to experience IBS if a parent or sibling has already got it.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

All of the symptoms of IBS involve the gastrointestinal system. Symptom severity is dependent on the individual themselves. A lot of the time, people will undergo and experience: cramping, abdominal pain, reflux, stool with mucus, bloating, diarrhoea, frequent and excessive gas and constipation. Within most cases, often symptoms like bloating, cramping and stomach pain will subside after the passing of a bowel movements. In unfortunate circumstances, some people do present these symptoms 24/7. Most individuals do not experience all IBS symptoms, all of the time. Often the intensity varies and they come and go depending on the triggers.

What are the Triggers of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Studies have shown that some common triggers of IBS can result in either aforementioned diarrhoea or constipation. If you find yourself having a flare of IBS, some of the most common triggers of these attacks are: diets that contain too much protein, consumption of foods with lots of refined grains and processed foods (junk foods), excess dairy consumption, fried foods, large meals, fatty foods, wheat in people whom already have gluten intolerance or sensitivities, alcohol, caffeine and excess consumption of carbonated drinks.

Tips & Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

People diagnosed with IBS are commonly recommended to adjust their diet and lifestyle before medication intervenes as the treatment method. If you are clinically diagnosed with IBS, doctors will often tell you to moderate fibre intake based on the symptoms you are suffering. Simple tips to assist managing the IBS symptoms are staying hydrated, eating smaller food portions, avoiding foods/beverages that cause gas (ex. carbonated drinks, cabbage, broccoli), get enough sleep and manage stress levels.

It is very important to manage stress levels and make sure they do not become regularly elevated, as depression and anxiety have been known to be both extremely common triggers for IBS flares. Meditation, relaxation exercises, Epsom salt baths and other relaxation supplements are great to decrease stress.

Compounded Medication for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you have tried to amend your lifestyle and diet to best manage your IBS flares and nothing is working well-enough, medication is also another option that is considered to be a great treatment for irritable bowel syndrome.

There are safe medications that can assist the overarching elements that may be causing IBS and assist with some symptoms such as abdominal pain and other physical symptoms. Some product options include:

• The Compounding Lab- Clean Collagen XR 200g (powder): Clean Collagen XR – 200g powder 100% pure organic beef Collagen powder. Collagen is most effective when consumed through food or supplements.  Collagen aids in strengthening and improving appearance of hair, skin, and nails. It is associated with building and strengthening bones; aiding joint health; reducing inflammation; aiding injury recovery; boosting immunity; and supporting a healthy metabolism.
• Designs For Health – GI-Revive (Oral Powder): We love this product as it helps to decrease mild gastrointestinal tract inflammation.
• The Compounding Lab – Clean Leaky Gut Powder: this product is designed for mucosal support One 5g scoop in water three times a day. Contains: L-serine, L-proline, L-isoleucine, L-cysteine, L-glutamine, collagen.

However, if you suffer severe and uncontrollable symptoms it is recommended that you take IBS-specific medication that can assist with these effects. We advise that you speak to your doctor and then contact us to see how we can best support your journey to better managing your IBS.

Thanks, Lou

Mary-louise Condon
Senior Compounding Pharmacist
BPharm ABAAHP

45 Crosby Road, Albion. Q. 4010.
P: 07 3862 6000   F: 07 32560801  M: 0419766182
E: [email protected]
W: www.compoundinglab.com.au
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a medical doctor or other qualified health provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have have read on this site. All compounded medicine that are scheduled require a doctor’s prescription.