Diarrhea And IBS: How To Ease Symptoms
Diarrhea episodes caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) always seem to happen at the worst times.
When you're far from a restroom, in an important meeting, or on a date, that familiar rumbling in your stomach begins, and you desperately need to find a bathroom. It might be the stress of these inconvenient moments or the fear of an IBS episode that triggers it, or it could be linked to your diet.
If you're dealing with diarrhoea-prone IBS, there are ways to control your symptoms.
What Causes IBS Diarrhea?
IBS can manifest with various symptoms, such as diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, cramping, and gas, as per information from the Cleveland Clinic. These symptoms can occur independently, together, or in a rotating pattern. When diarrhoea is the primary symptom, characterized by sudden and urgent bowel movements resulting in loose and watery stools, it's referred to as diarrhoea-predominant IBS or IBS-D.
The exact cause of diarrhoea in IBS patients is not fully understood. Some individuals observe that stress or anxiety seems to trigger their diarrhoea episodes, while others notice a connection between certain foods, like dairy, and their symptoms.
People with IBS generally need to explore potential food triggers that worsen their diarrhoea. If dairy products consistently worsen their symptoms, it might suggest lactose intolerance, prompting them to avoid dairy.
There's emerging evidence that FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) also play a role. These substances can increase liquid and gas in the small and large intestines, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort like abdominal pain, bloating, and gas. Managing IBS symptoms can be aided by avoiding foods high in FODMAPs.
Examples of high-FODMAP foods that could potentially trigger IBS symptoms include:
- Fruits like apples, peaches, pears, and watermelon
- Vegetables such as onions, garlic, beets, and Brussels sprouts
- Grains like barley, wheat, and rye
- Dairy products
- Legumes
Certain artificial sweeteners, specifically sorbitol and mannitol
For individuals who notice a correlation between stress and their diarrhoea episodes, managing stress becomes crucial in preventing gut reactions. If someone anticipates a stressful situation that typically leads to diarrhoea and cramps, taking an antidiarrheal medication like Imodium beforehand might be a practical solution.
It's worth mentioning that experiencing urgent diarrhoea in the middle of the night is unusual for individuals with IBS. Suppose you encounter such nighttime symptoms or any persistent changes in bowel habits or other IBS-related issues. In that case, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable, as they may signify a more serious health concern.
6 Ways To Manage IBS Diarrhea
Regardless of the cause of your IBS, there are effective ways to manage diarrhoea and prevent it from disrupting your daily life. Here are some tips to help you manage diarrhoea associated with IBS:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Consider taking fibre supplements like psyllium-based products such as Metamucil. These can benefit some individuals with IBS by adding bulk to stools and controlling diarrhoea. However, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any fibre supplements, as they may only suit some.
- Use Over-The-Counter Antidiarrheal Medication: Antidiarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) can relieve symptoms. If you anticipate a situation that makes you anxious, you can take a dose of medication beforehand to see if it helps calm your stomach.
- Identify And Avoid Trigger Foods: Consider foods that may trigger your symptoms. If dairy products or other specific foods lead to diarrhoea, consider eliminating them, especially before important events or activities. Common triggers include fried/fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, and carbonated beverages.
- Manage Stress: Stress management is crucial. Engage in stress-reducing activities like exercise, such as yoga, walking, biking, or running, which can promote relaxation. Deep breathing techniques and meditation are effective ways to handle stress and promote a sense of calm.
- Explore Therapeutic Approaches: Hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy have shown promise in helping some individuals manage IBS-related diarrhoea. These therapies address fears and alter thought patterns to prevent the body from reacting to diarrhoea.
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Discuss potential medications and supplements with your doctor. Antispasmodic medications, antidepressants, antibiotics, and other options may offer relief from IBS-related diarrhoea. Peppermint oil can also sometimes act as an antispasmodic. It's essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplements.
Remember that there are various strategies to control diarrhoea caused by IBS. It may take some experimentation and a combination of methods to find what works best for your body. You don't have to live near a bathroom constantly; you must discover the right approach to manage your symptoms.
If you need help, Mobi Doctor can provide assistance and support for managing your health and medical concerns.
