IBS Subtypes: How to Identify and Manage Your Specific IBS

IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by chronic abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits.

However, not all IBS is the same; there are several subtypes, each with distinct symptoms and management strategies.

Understanding your specific IBS subtype can help tailor treatment and improve symptom control. This blog post explores the different IBS subtypes, how to identify them, and evidence-based strategies for managing each type.

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Identifying IBS Subtypes

IBS is generally classified into three main subtypes based on the predominant bowel habit:

1. IBS with Constipation (IBS-C):

   Characterised by hard or lumpy stools and infrequent bowel movements.
   

2. IBS with Diarrhoea (IBS-D):

   Characterised by frequent, loose, or watery stools.
   

3. Mixed IBS (IBS-M):

   Characterised by alternating patterns of constipation and diarrhoea.

IBS with Constipation

IBS-C is characterised by infrequent, hard, and difficult-to-pass stools. This can lead to discomfort and bloating, making daily life challenging.

Dietary Changes

Increasing dietary fibre can help alleviate constipation. Soluble fibre, found in foods like oats, apples, and carrots, is generally better tolerated and effective for IBS-C. A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that soluble fibre supplements significantly improved symptoms in IBS-C patients (Ford et al., 2014).

Hydration

Adequate water intake is crucial for preventing and managing constipation. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep things moving smoothly.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements. Activities like walking, jogging, and yoga are particularly beneficial for promoting regularity.

Medication

If dietary and lifestyle alteration is not effective, laxatives and stool softeners may be used for short-term relief if instructed by your doctor. For chronic constipation, prescription medications may be considered.

Probiotics

Certain probiotic strains have been shown to improve constipation symptoms in IBS-C patients. See a specialist dietitian for more direction on this.

IBS with Diarrhoea (IBS-D)

IBS-D involves frequent, loose, and watery stools, which can lead to urgency and abdominal pain.

Dietary Changes

A low FODMAP diet can help reduce diarrhoea and other IBS symptoms by avoiding foods that ferment in the gut and produce gas. According to a study published in Gastroenterology, 70% of IBS-D patients experienced symptom relief with a low FODMAP diet (Halmos et al., 2014).

Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential when managing diarrhoea. Oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte drinks can help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

Medication

If dietary change is not effective, over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications like loperamide can provide short-term relief if directed by your doctor. For chronic diarrhoea, prescription medications may be used.

Probiotics

Certain probiotic strains have been shown to reduce diarrhoea and improve gut health in IBS-D patients. See a specialist dietitian for more direction on this.

Mixed IBS (IBS-M)

IBS-M is characterised by alternating symptoms of constipation and diarrhoea, making it one of the more complex subtypes to manage.

Dietary Changes

Since IBS-M involves alternating symptoms, a balanced diet that includes both soluble fibre and low FODMAP foods can be beneficial. Keeping a food diary to track triggers and symptoms can help manage this subtype effectively.

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help manage stress and improve symptoms.

Medication

Depending on the predominant symptom, medications used for IBS-C or IBS-D may be prescribed. See a specialist dietitian for more direction on this.

In Conclusion

Understanding the specific subtype of IBS you have is crucial for effective management. By identifying whether you have IBS-C, IBS-D or IBS-M, you can tailor your diet, lifestyle, and medical treatments to better control symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Remember, managing IBS often requires a multifaceted approach, so consider combining dietary changes, stress management techniques, and appropriate medications under the guidance of a healthcare provider for the most effective relief!

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References

1. Ford, A. C., Moayyedi, P., Lacy, B. E., Lembo, A. J., Saito, Y. A., Schiller, L., ... & Quigley, E. M. M. (2014). American College of Gastroenterology Monograph on the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Chronic Idiopathic Constipation. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 109(S1), S2-S26. DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2014.187.

2. Halmos, E. P., Power, V. A., Shepherd, S. J., Gibson, P. R., & Muir, J. G. (2014). A diet low in FODMAPs reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology, 146(1), 67-75.e5. DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2013.09.046.