Did you know that April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month? IBS is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders, yet it is often misunderstood.
IBS is characterized by abdominal discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. It is estimated that 10-15% of adults in the United States, which translates to about 25-45 million individuals, are affected by IBS. Despite how common it is, many misconceptions still surround IBS. In honor of IBS Awareness Month, let’s separate facts from fiction and address some of the most common myths.
Fact Versus Fiction: IBS
IBS is not a serious condition. (FICTION)
IBS can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, potentially interfering with daily routines. Individuals who experience diarrhea may feel anxious about needing quick bathroom access, making leaving their home stressful. On the other hand, chronic constipation can lead to persistent abdominal pain that disrupts normal activities, sometimes resulting in missed work or school. These symptoms may also contribute to poor sleep, changes in eating habits, missed social events, and increased stress, all of which can negatively impact overall wellbeing.
IBS impacts more than just the digestive system. (FACT)
Although IBS primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract, it is also associated with higher rates of other health conditions which can be attributed to the connection between the gut and the nervous system. According to the UNC Center for Functional & GI Motility Disorders, individuals with IBS experience conditions such as skin rashes, fibromyalgia, and endometriosis at higher rates than the general population. Additionally, migraine headaches, chronic pelvic pain, anxiety, and depression occur more frequently in those living with IBS.
IBS disproportionately affects women. (FACT)
Research shows that women are up to twice as likely as men to develop IBS. Other factors that may increase risk include:
- Being under the age of 50
- Family history of IBS
- High levels of stress
- History of severe gastrointestinal infection
- Food sensitives or intolerances
- History of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
IBS is influenced by many factors, so understanding if you are at higher risk may help with earlier diagnosis and treatment.
IBS treatment is the same for everyone. (FICTION)
IBS does not look the same for everyone, and neither does treatment. The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Since IBS is multifactorial, treatment plans must be tailored to a person’s symptoms, triggers, and disease severity. Increasing fiber and water intake may be beneficial for some individuals, while others may find relief from a low FODMAP, gluten-free, or dairy-free diet. In addition to dietary changes, treatment may also encompass stress management, increased physical activity, and medication to help manage symptoms. Since no two cases of IBS are the same, it is essential to work with your healthcare provider and a registered dietitian to identify triggers and create an individualized treatment plan.
IBS damages the digestive tract. (FICTION)
Unlike inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, IBS does NOT cause damage to the digestive tract. IBS indicates changes in gut motility and sensitivity but not structural damage due to the lack of inflammation. Even though IBS does not cause inflammation or tissue damage, that does not mean it should be overlooked or dismissed. As previously mentioned, IBS can significantly impact quality of life and daily activities and should be taken seriously.
GI Support Group
At Avance Care, we offer a Gastrointestinal (GI) support group. In this support group, we work together with specialists from nutrition, gastroenterology, behavioral health, and more to provide information on living with and managing an array of GI conditions and symptoms. We also provide a space for individuals with GI conditions to connect, discuss personal experiences, and engage in support. Ask your medical provider, dietitian, or behavioral health specialist about the GI support group and how you can get involved! Or visit here to fill out an interest form and someone will be in touch soon to get you started.