7 Signs that you may have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)!

1. Abdominal pain or discomfort

One of the most common signs of IBS is abdominal pain or discomfort. This pain usually

• It appears in the lower abdomen.
• It appears in flare-ups and varies in intensity.
• It is relieved (or not) after a bowel movement.

The pain can be described as cramps or bloating and tends to get worse after meals or stressful situations.

2. Changes in evacuation pattern

People with IBS often experience changes in their bowel habits, which can include:

• Diarrhea: Frequent, liquid bowel movements associated with bowel urgency.
• Constipation: hardened stools, infrequent bowel movements and straining to evacuate.
• Alternating between diarrhea and constipation: Some people experience both extremes at different times.

These changes are clear signs that the intestine is reacting abnormally.

3. Bloating and gas

The accumulation of gas and a feeling of abdominal bloating are very common complaints among IBS sufferers. These sensations can cause significant discomfort, especially after meals.

4. Mucus in the stool

The presence of mucus in the stool is a sign that, although less frequent, can be indicative of IBS. Mucus is produced naturally by the intestine, but in people with the syndrome, its presence in the stool can be more noticeable.

5. Feeling of incomplete evacuation

Even after going to the toilet, some people with IBS feel that they haven't managed to empty their bowels completely. This feeling can be frustrating and lead to frequent trips to the toilet.

6. Symptoms related to emotional factors

IBS often worsens during periods of stress, anxiety or depression. This is because the gut is connected to the central nervous system by the so-called gut-brain axis. Emotional stress can trigger or intensify symptoms.

7. Fatigue and sleep disorders

Although it's not an intestinal symptom, many people with IBS report constant fatigue and difficulty sleeping. This can be a direct consequence of abdominal discomfort or a reflection of the relationship between intestinal health and general well-being.

Possible triggering factors

Although the exact cause of IBS is still not fully understood, some factors can trigger or aggravate symptoms:

• Foods that are fatty, spicy or high in insoluble fiber.
• Carbonated drinks, caffeine and alcohol.
• Changes in the intestinal microbiota.
• Emotional and psychological stress.

When to seek medical help?

If you experience the symptoms mentioned frequently and they are affecting your quality of life, it is important to see a doctor, preferably a gastroenterologist. The diagnosis of IBS is clinical, made on the basis of the symptoms reported, and may include:

• Exclusion of other conditions such as food intolerances, celiac disease or inflammatory bowel diseases.
• Complementary tests to rule out infections or other causes.

Treatment and control

Although there is no cure for IBS, it can be controlled with a combination of:

• Dietary changes: Identifying trigger foods and adopting a balanced diet.
• Medication: To relieve specific symptoms such as pain, constipation or diarrhea.
• Stress management: Practices such as yoga, meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy help to reduce flare-ups.
• Probiotics: These can improve the balance of the intestinal microbiota.

Remember: Every body is unique!

If you suspect you may have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, paying attention to your body's signals is key. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, intestinal changes and bloating can indicate the condition, but only a doctor can confirm the diagnosis. With the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, it is possible to control IBS and live more comfortably.

If you have any doubts or concerns, seek medical advice and remember: every body is unique, and treatment needs to be personalized.

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