Can an Illness Trigger IBS?

The Tummy Clinic | September 19th, 2024

Introduction:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. IBS affects 1 in 5 Canadians. While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, there are some hints. Research suggests that certain illnesses, particularly acute infectious gastroenteritis (bacterial, viral and protozoal) can trigger the development of IBS in some individuals. In this article, we will explore the connection between illness and IBS based on a study by Berumen et al. (2021).

The Link between Illness and IBS:

Approximately 1 in 10 individuals who experience acute infectious gastroenteritis go on to develop IBS. Several factors contribute to this increased risk:

Severity of Infection: The study found that a greater severity of infection is associated with an increased risk of developing IBS. Those who experience more severe symptoms during the acute illness are more likely to develop long-term gastrointestinal
issues.
Younger Age: Younger individuals are at a higher risk of developing IBS following an acute infection. This may be due to differences in immune response and gut microbiota composition.
Female Sex: Females have a higher susceptibility to developing post-infectious IBS. Hormonal differences and genetic factors may play a role in this gender disparity.
Psychological Distress: Psychological factors, such as anxiety and stress, can influence the development and severity of IBS symptoms. Individuals with higher levels of psychological distress are more likely to develop IBS after an acute infection.

It is also important to note that for those already suffering from IBS— an acute gastrointestinal infection can result in changes to their pre-existing IBS phenotype.

Managing Post-Infectious IBS:

If you suspect that an illness has triggered your IBS symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Education about IBS and self-care strategies can empower you to better manage your condition.

By addressing the underlying triggers and adopting appropriate management strategies, you can improve your quality of life and minimize the impact of IBS on your daily activities.

If you are suffering from IBS or suspect that an illness has triggered your symptoms, book an appointment at The Tummy Clinic today. Our team of experts are committed to providing ongoing care and optimizing your gut health. Together, we can navigate the challenges of IBS and work towards a happier, more comfortable future.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8144546/

Frequently Asked Questions

What to Eat When You Have IBS with Diarrhea: Tips for Relief

Managing IBS with diarrhea can be challenging, but making the right food choices can help. Here’s what works for many people with IBS:

Low FODMAP diet: This dietary approach helps reduce symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and stomach pain. It involves removing certain foods and gradually reintroducing them to see which ones trigger your symptoms.
Easy-to-digest foods: Stick with foods like plain rice, cooked carrots, zucchini, and lean proteins (e.g., chicken, fish) to ease digestion.
Avoiding triggers: Steer clear of fatty, spicy, or fried foods, as well as dairy and caffeine. These can worsen symptoms for many people with IBS.

If you’re unsure which foods work for you, consulting with a healthcare provider can help you create a personalized meal plan.

What Causes Bloating, Gas, and Stomach Pain in IBS?

Bloating, gas, and stomach pain are common in IBS. These symptoms often result from:

Gas buildup: Undigested food or fermentation in the intestines can cause gas and bloating.
Gut motility issues: In IBS, food may move too quickly or slowly through the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.
Food sensitivities: Certain foods like high FODMAP foods can cause bloating or pain.

Managing these symptoms typically involves diet modifications, stress management, and finding the foods that work best for your body.

How to Manage IBS-Related Constipation

IBS constipation can be tough, but there are ways to improve bowel movements:

Increase soluble fiber: Foods like oats, bananas, and carrots can help soften stool.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep things moving.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps stimulate digestion.

If these strategies don’t work, gentle laxatives or stool softeners might be considered, but always under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What Foods Trigger IBS Symptoms?

Certain foods can make IBS symptoms worse, including:

High FODMAP foods: These include foods like onions, garlic, certain fruits (e.g., apples, watermelon), and dairy.
Fatty foods: Rich, greasy foods often cause discomfort for those with IBS.
Caffeine and alcohol: These can irritate the digestive system and increase symptoms like diarrhea or bloating.

By tracking your food intake and symptoms, you can start to identify which foods are causing flare-ups and work toward a personalized plan.

What Causes Constant Constipation in IBS?

Constant constipation in IBS can be caused by:

Low fiber intake
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can make stool hard and difficult to pass.
Stress: Emotional stress often affects digestion and can contribute to constipation.

If constipation persists despite lifestyle changes, consider speaking with a healthcare provider for further assessment and potential treatment options.

How to Deal with Severe Bloating in IBS?

Severe bloating can occur when:

Gas is trapped in the intestines due to difficulty digesting certain foods or fermentation.
Slow motility: In IBS, the digestive system may move food too slowly, leading to bloating.

To manage bloating, consider reducing high FODMAP foods and incorporating more digestive-friendly meals. Stress management techniques like yoga or mindfulness can also help reduce bloating by calming the nervous system.

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