Answers
Is IBS dangerous?
Short answer
No. IBS causes real pain, bloating and bowel trouble, but it does not damage the bowel, cause bleeding or lead to cancer. The important thing is to make sure the symptoms really are IBS.
Why IBS feels so bad
In IBS, the nerves linking the gut and the brain become over-sensitive. Normal amounts of gas and normal bowel movements are felt as pain, bloating or urgency. Stress and some foods make it worse.
Signs that are not IBS
These need proper tests:
- Blood in the stool
- Weight loss without trying
- Symptoms that wake you at night
- Fever or anaemia
- New symptoms after age 45, or a family history of bowel cancer or IBD
What helps
- Meals at regular times
- Gentle fibre such as oats and isabgol
- Finding trigger foods with a short diary, often onion, garlic, rajma or milk
- Better sleep, exercise and stress care
- Medicines for pain, constipation or loose motions when needed