Irritable Bowel Syndrome (or IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a very common problem affecting 1 person in 5 developing the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in their lifetime.

There are four general symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

• Symptom 1: Stomach cramping, indigestion.
• Symptom 2: Bloating: excessive wind and rumbling noises.
• Symptom 3: Constipation.
• Symptom 4: Diarrhoea.

With IBS there is no "organic" abnormality to find, and there are no specific blood tests.  The causes of the symptoms of IBS cannot be seen with X-rays or stool examinations.   The symptoms of IBS often overlap with other conditions including stomach ulcers and Coeliac disease.  Since there are specific tests for stomach ulcers (due to Helicobacter Pylori) and tests for Coeliac disease, often these are used first to be discounted and confirm if Irritable Bowel Syndrome is the real problem.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is highly likely if you have suffered from:

• Abdominal discomfort for 12 weeks (not necessarily consecutive) in the last 12 months.

• The discomfort:

• is relieved after a bowel opening, or,

• is associated with a change in frequency of bowel opening, or,

• is associated with the appearance of motions.

Research has found that a food intolerance can trigger an Irritable Bowel Syndrome attack.  In a trial a significant number of patients found that avoiding the foods suggested from the results of a food intolerance blood test, spent less time suffering from the symptoms of IBS.

The theory is that as food is digested into its components (sugars, peptides and amino acids), some of the components escape into the walls of the gut.  The body mistakenly recognises the components as being "foreign" and a legion of antibodies begin to attack the walls of the gut, causing low grade inflammation and sensitivity.  Find out more about eating for IBS,  food intolerances and our testing service.  We offer food intolerance test kits and also a full testing service.

Can I be tested for IBS ?

No. There are not any tests available.  However, food intolerance testing has been found to highlight foods that are triggers for IBS.   Choose from a kit to use at home, or come in to the Inverness CCT or Black Isle Practice and we will prepare a sample to send to the lab.

What can I do to reduce my symptoms?

There are a few approaches to managing your symptoms:

• Taking medications:  Your GP can prescribe these and anti-spasmodic medication for IBS are available from your pharmacy.
• Food to avoid for IBS: Certain foods will trigger off your IBS symptoms, find out what they are and avoid eating them. 
• Stress is also an important thing to consider.