Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can sometimes feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle and to make it even more complicated, it comes in different types! In this article, we’re going to unravel the mystery and shed light on two common types of IBS: IBS with constipation (IBS-C) and IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D). If you’d like more information on IBS-M (a combination of those two types) then check out our Types of IBS page.
IBS-C: When Constipation Takes Center Stage
IBS-C is like having a traffic jam in your digestive system. It’s characterised by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools. If you find yourself straining, feeling bloated, and experiencing abdominal discomfort, you might be dealing with IBS-C. Here’s what you need to know:
- Sluggish Bowel Movements: With IBS-C, your bowel movements become irregular and may occur less frequently than normal. This can lead to discomfort and a feeling of incomplete evacuation.
- Hard, Dry Stools: When your digestive system slows down, the stool becomes hard and dry, making it difficult to pass. This can cause straining and even more discomfort.
- Bloating and Abdominal Pain: IBS-C often goes hand in hand with bloating and abdominal pain. You may feel like your belly is distended or swollen, leading to discomfort and a sensation of heaviness.
IBS-D: When Diarrhoea Takes the Spotlight
If IBS-C is like a traffic jam, then IBS-D is like a fast and furious race. It’s characterised by frequent, loose stools and a sense of urgency to go. Here’s what you should know about IBS-D:
- Frequent Bowel Movements: With IBS-D, your digestive system goes into overdrive, resulting in more frequent trips to the bathroom. You may find yourself rushing to find the nearest restroom, especially after meals or during times of stress.
- Loose or Watery Stools: The stools in IBS-D tend to be loose, watery, or have an urgent quality. This can lead to concerns about accidents and can greatly impact daily activities.
- Abdominal Discomfort: Along with the urgency and frequent bowel movements, abdominal discomfort is a common symptom of IBS-D. You may experience cramping, pain, or a general uneasiness in your belly.
Understanding the Similarities and Differences:
While IBS-C and IBS-D have their distinct features, they share some commonalities. Both subtypes can cause abdominal discomfort, impact daily life, and be influenced by factors such as stress, diet, and hormonal changes. It’s also worth noting that individuals with IBS may experience a mix of both constipation and diarrhoea at different times, leading to a diagnosis of IBS-M (mixed).
Managing IBS-C and IBS-D:
The good news is that there are strategies to help manage the symptoms of IBS-C and IBS-D. Here are some tips that may bring you relief:
- Diet Modifications: Experiment with your diet to identify potential triggers. Certain foods like high-fat meals, spicy foods, caffeine, or artificial sweeteners may worsen symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help you track patterns and make informed choices.
- Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate symptoms of both IBS-C and IBS-D. Managing stress through techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in activities you enjoy can have a positive impact on your gut health.
- Medications: In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage specific symptoms. For IBS-C, laxatives or medications that improve bowel motility may be recommended. For IBS-D, medications that slow down bowel movements or reduce intestinal spasms may be prescribed. Imodium can be amazing for reducing the symptoms! If you get bloating/wind, then you can always pair the imodium with simeticone (main ingredient in Windeze)
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can make a significant difference in managing both IBS-C and IBS-D. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and staying hydrated can help support optimal digestive function and overall well-being.
It’s important to remember that managing IBS is a journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may take some trial and error to find the right combination of strategies that work best for you. Consulting with a healthcare professional experienced in managing IBS can provide personalised guidance and support.