IBS FACTS

What are the signs that I may have IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Here are some signs that you may have IBS:

Abdominal pain or discomfort: This is pain that occurs in the lower abdomen and may be relieved by passing gas or having a bowel movement.

Bloating: Many people with IBS experience bloating, which can cause the abdomen to feel full or distended.

Changes in bowel habits: This can include diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. Some people with IBS may also experience urgency or a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

Mucus in the stool: While not always present, some people with IBS may notice mucus in their stool.

It’s important to note that the symptoms of IBS can vary widely from person to person, and some people may experience only a few of these symptoms.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. They can help to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms and work with you to develop a management plan tailored to your needs.

If you have symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea, talk to a doctor right away.

#flushingoutIBS

Let's talk about the prevalence of IBS in Canada

Chances are you know at least one person in your life who has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

This is because IBS is very common in the population.

We are talking about 13 to 20% of Canadians who suffer from it. That’s between 5 to 7.7 million individuals who are affected. It’s considerable.

If you have symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea, talk to a doctor right away.

#flushingoutIBS

How to Cope with IBS at Work?

Many of us are planning to return to work and this has its own set of perks and challenges. It’s energizing to see your coworkers, having a place to discuss job-related responsibilities, and having lunch and coffee breaks together. On the other hand, it can be stressful, especially for people with IBS who have been coping by working remotely for so long. What can you do to manage your stress and IBS at work? First, you can get your symptoms under control by making lifestyle changes, such as finding a therapy or medications that can help keep your IBS in check. Second, tell your supervisor about your condition. With as many as 18% of Canadians dealing with IBS, you are certainly not alone.

Learn more at https://www.everydayhealth.com/ibs/ibs-and-work.aspx

#flushingoutIBS

Impact of Stress on IBS

Stress is known to be a major driver of IBS symptom flares. There is also no doubt that the effects of COVID-19 are immense and may induce additional stress, anxiety, or depression. People with IBS frequently suffer from stress, which can worsen symptoms. That’s because the gut (also your second brain) is in part controlled by the nervous system, which responds to stress. Evidence suggests that the immune system, also responding to stress, plays a role. While there is no cure for IBS, treatments can manage your symptoms and discomfort. Talk to your doctor to find the right treatment plan that will work best for you.

#flushingoutIBS

Can Seasonal Changes Trigger IBS? Talk to Your Doctor

Ever wonder why your IBS seems to flare up more with seasonal change? Environmental allergies can certainly cause IBS symptoms. The pollen you breathe in can move to the bowel and irritate the digestive tract. Having IBS flare up due to allergies is often simple to uncover, because the symptoms will be worse during certain times of the year. If you’re still having trouble controlling your IBS, it’s important to speak to a doctor right away. While IBS is not curable, the right treatment plan can help lessen your symptoms.

#flushingoutIBS

Food Allergies Can Trigger Your IBS -- Talk to Your Doctor

Food allergies can trigger IBS because, while the food may cause symptoms such as a rash on the outside of the body, it can also irritate the inside too. A way to uncover this connection is to look for additional intestinal symptoms on top of those typically felt due to IBS, such as headache and fatigue. Studies show that 20-65% of IBS patients attribute their symptoms to an adverse food reaction, and those who experience atopic allergy symptoms are more than three times more likely to have IBS. If your IBS is still uncontrollable, it’s important to speak to your doctor right away to find the right treatment plan that will work best for you.

#flushingoutIBS

Suffering from IBS? Talk to Your Doctor

IBS is a debilitating and chronic medical condition. But the sooner you talk with a doctor, the better able you’ll be to take steps to reduce your IBS symptoms. If you’re experiencing two of the three IBS symptoms such as: 1) Abdominal pain that eases after a bowel movement, including pain from cramps or excess gas; 2) Change in stool frequency, which can range from diarrhea to constipation; or 3) Change in stool consistency, with bowel movements becoming harder or looser, you should talk to your doctor to find out if any treatment plans are available to help relieve your symptoms.

#flushingoutIBS

Myth: Stress or Anxiety Causes IBS.

Even though stress and depression can make symptoms worse, IBS is not a psychiatric illness. It's not caused by your emotions or thoughts. Experts don't know why people get the disease. But it's clear that IBS is a real medical condition, and the cause is not in your head. IBS symptoms are very real and can be distressing. The gut and brain are a two-way communication system that talk to each other. However sometimes these two organs overshare information and because people with IBS have an overly sensitive gut (visceral hypersensitivity) this can result in worsening the symptoms.

#flushingoutIBS

How to Avoid IBS Triggers? Talk to Your Doctor

Some foods, called triggers, can make IBS-related symptoms flare up. Most patients experience worsening IBS symptoms with large meals, fried and fatty foods, food that contains dairy products, carbonated drinks, or food and drinks with chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, fructose, or sorbitol. If you notice any IBS triggers associated with food or beverages, you can plan to avoid or minimize their intake. That way, you can work on keeping problems with constipation, diarrhea, belly pain, and bloating to a minimum. Talk to your doctor or a dietitian on how to avoid certain foods that cause IBS flare-up.

#flushingoutIBS

It’s not in your head! IBS is a gut disorder

IBS is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions, yet it can be a taboo subject when it comes to talking about it to others. Not only can IBS be quite painful, but it can also be very uncomfortable too. The myth that IBS is all in your head needlessly makes people suffer alone in silence. Post-infectious IBS is one of the common ways to acquire IBS symptoms. Post-infectious IBS refers to the IBS symptoms that arise following an infection of the digestive tract. Most cases of post-infectious IBS cause diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) rather than constipation-predominant IBS (IBS-C).1 If you believe you have IBS, schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss the right treatment option that works best for you.

#flushingoutIBS

Be like Hope. Flush out IBS!

This is Hope. Hope lives with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Hope is not alone.

Did you know 18% of Canadians, and 11% of people globally, suffer from IBS?

Desperate for relief, Hope talked to her doctor and didn’t shy away from talking openly about the nitty-gritty details of digestion.

Today, she doesn’t let recurring abdominal pain, bloating, or irregular stool form or frequency interfere with her life.

Hope learned she doesn’t have to suffer anymore because IBS treatments exist.

Be like Hope. Flush out IBS!

Talk to your doctor to find out more about prescription IBS treatment options.

How to prepare for your first consultation?

It’s important to be prepared for your first consultation with your doctor with detailed information on your IBS symptoms, such as the characteristics and occurrence of your symptoms and what seems to trigger them. Here are some key items to bring with you to your doctor’s visit.

1. Symptom Diary: Keeping a symptom diary is helpful for tracking and precisely cataloguing your symptoms, eating habits, physical activity, and any stressful incidents – along with detailed notes for each entry such as the date, time, duration and frequency.

2. Medical History: Prepare your medical history, highlighting any past health issues that might be connected to your IBS.

3. List of Medications: Prepare a list of your current medications (drugs and supplements), along with their dosage and frequency of use. Overall, the more information you’re able to provide, the better your doctor can accurately diagnose the disease and recommend treatments and coping mechanisms based on your IBS symptoms and potential triggers.

#flushingoutIBS

Gut Flora and Hormones – Two Reasons for the Gender Difference

Some working theories as to why women have an increased incidence of IBS and suffer greater impact than men may be due to hormonal or bacterial factors.
Hormonally, men and women are very different. Women may report more severe, frequent, and long-lasting IBS-related pain than men because the hormone estrogen increases women’s sensitivity to pain. Likewise, one of the root causes of IBS is a bacterial imbalance in the gut. Differences in gut flora between men and women may explain why women are more commonly and severely affected by IBS than men. 

Stool Tool

t can be difficult to know what’s considered normal when going to the bathroom. But your stool can tell you a lot about your digestive health and how your IBS is being managed. It’s important to pay attention when something feels – or looks – off because this information can end up being really valuable when talking to your doctor about your IBS.

Did you know an important “stool tool” is the Bristol Stool Chart – which allows patients to identify their stool form using seven different images with accompanying written descriptors. Remember, it’s important to monitor your stool’s appearance often because this doesn’t just affect which subtype of IBS you get diagnosed with, but also how your doctor will approach treating you.

To learn more about the Bristol Stool Chart, visit: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/poop-chart-bristol-stool-scale

It’s time to talk IBS! 

Breaking the taboo with Dr.Marwaha, Gastroenterologist!

Watch the Instagram Live around IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome)

IBS and Quality of Life 

Did you know IBS greatly reduces quality of life, particularly for women? Living with IBS presents many unique, often frustrating, challenges that can affect one’s daily life. IBS significantly impacts an individual’s ability to live their life to its fullest. Women with IBS report a lower quality of life than men, resulting in higher levels of fatigue, depression, and anxiety. Adding to all of this, women find that IBS has a greater impact on their body image and personal relationships compared to men.

If you or someone you know needs help either managing their IBS or stress, it’s important to speak to a doctor. Many doctors and clinics are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone with a health care professional, instead of going into the office.  

Fear of Visiting Doctors During a Pandemic 

One of the main reasons for putting off seeing a doctor about your IBS might be due to the fear of attending in-person appointments. There is, understandably, a heightened anxiety about leaving the house because of the risk of contracting COVID-19, and the doctor’s office is no exception.

However, it’s important to remember that many doctors are making telemedicine available for their patients. If you must go to a clinic, be sure to ask beforehand about the clinic’s requirements regarding mask wearing, cleaning protocols and sanitizing measures for frequently touched surfaces, social distancing practices, and the number of people who can be in the clinic at the same time.

Remember only about 40% of those who have IBS symptoms seek help from a doctor. If you or anyone you know suffers from IBS symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain or cramping, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas), it’s important to speak to a doctor right away. 

IBS and Spring – Drive to Doctor 

Ever wonder why your IBS seems to act up more in the spring? This has to do with your immune system having to manage stress, maintain homeostasis and fend off allergens such as toxins, pesticides, solvents, and air pollutants.

If your IBS is particularly disruptive in spring, try the following:

1. Use an air filter in your living space and bedroom

2. Reduce scented products and go unscented

3. Avoid dry-cleaned products

4. Isolate your house plants

If you’re still having trouble controlling your IBS, it’s important to speak to a doctor right away. While IBS is not curable, treatment can help lessen symptoms. Therapies may include medicines, supplements, dietary changes, and exercise.

Allergy & IBS – What’s the connection? 

Ever wonder why IBS symptoms seem to flare up more in the spring or fall? It may be that IBS symptoms tend to flare up during allergy season, or that certain foods trigger your IBS and allergy symptoms.

If you’re finding it difficult to manage your IBS symptoms during allergy season, try to mitigate this by reducing the environmental toxins around you. Though, as always, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and your options.

Men and IBS 

While there’s no anatomical differences between the guts of women and men, in most Western countries, women are three times more likely to develop IBS than men. Nevertheless, IBS does affect men as well, and men with IBS may also experience problems with intimacy, difficulty fulfilling their work, home, and family obligations. It’s also important to note that while IBS is most common for people in their 30s and 40s, IBS can develop at any age. Also, for many older men who have struggled with intermittent stomach symptoms (e.g., excessive bloating and gas and bouts of unexplained diarrhea) for many years without a diagnosis, if these problems started when they were younger, they could very likely have IBS.

If you or anyone you know suffers from IBS symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, cramping, constipation, bouts of diarrhea, bloating, and gas), it’s advisable that you speak to a doctor.

Stigma and Irritable Bowel Syndrome 

Did you know that more than 60% of IBS suffers report perceived stigma, with about a third reporting “moderate to high” perceived stigma? Diseases that are invisible or concealable are more likely to be stigmatized than one that is more obvious to others. Therefore, it’s not surprising that people with IBS often feel stigmatized. Perceived stigma can cause increased depression and anxiety, decreased self-esteem and self-efficacy, and lower quality of life.

If you feel psychological stress due to your IBS, it’s important to talk to your doctor. However, if you feel stigmatized by your health care provider, it may be time to transfer your medical care elsewhere.

IBS and Dating and Your Love Life 

Is IBS interfering with your dating and love life? Having healthy relationships, including a love life, are important facets of the human condition -- therefore it’s essential that you do not give up on these just because of your IBS. 

Here are some helpful tips:

1. Learn relaxation techniques to help handle stressful moments

2. Learn the importance of intimate communication and ask for your partner’s understanding 

3. Don’t make IBS only your partner’s issue and help them navigate the disease

4. Seek medical help and/or counselling if the issue persists  

Dysbiosis and Speaking to a Doctor 

Winter can be particularly difficult for IBS suffers due to the winter blues. The winter blues, or seasonal affective disorder, is characterized by low mood (depression), low self-esteem and low self-confidence. Other mental health issues include loss of hope for the future, lethargy (sluggishness), feelings of guilt and social withdrawal. People suffering from seasonal affective disorder also tend to eat more, and usually crave carbohydrate-rich, and sweet foods, which can result in weight gain. 

All of this is particularly worrisome for IBS suffers, and their flare-ups may become more frequent in the winter months.

If you’re experiencing depression, or any of the other mental health issues, or if you know you tend to experience these symptoms every year, you may want to speak to a doctor and/or therapist and find out how to remedy the situation. 

Types of IBS 

IBS-C, D, M and U. There are many different types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

IBS-C is defined as abdominal pain associated with constipation. The symptoms of IBS‑C are defined as long-lasting and keep coming back. IBS-D is a type of IBS in which abdominal pain or bloating symptoms happen along with increased diarrhea. There is also IBS-M, or mixed type, where symptoms vary back and forth between IBS-D and IBS-C. Finally, there is also unsubtyped IBS (or IBS-U), in which the stool consistency does not meet the criteria for IBS-D, C, or M.

There is no cure for IBS, but certain treatments may help alleviate some of the symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor.

What exactly is the gut-brain axis? How are these two systems connected?

Did you know that the gut is often referred to as the second brain? This is because of the gut-brain axis, a communication system that exists between our gut and our brain. The gut and the brain are also connected in more ways than one – physically, through the vagus nerve, and biochemically through the trillions of gut microbes that release neurotransmitters and short fatty acids that stimulate the nervous system. Specific types of intestinal bacteria have been found to enhance memory and regulate stress.

To learn more about the gut-brain axis, we invite you to watch this video by Dr. Jamie Gregor: What exactly is the gut-brain axis? How are these two systems connected?

Top IBS Questions: Answered!

When it comes to IBS, we like to leave no stone unturned! Here are the top IBS questions answered on IBS! Addressing everything from symptoms, to diet and other management strategies!

https://cdhf.ca/health-lifestyle/top-ibs-questions-answered/

Go with your gut feeling

Did you know that Canada has one of the highest prevalence of IBS? – an estimated 18% vs. 11% globally. More importantly, 70% of Canadian IBS suffers indicate that their symptoms interfere with everyday life and 46% report missing work or school due to IBS.

Some possible causes of IBS include communication problems between the brain and the gut, problems in the immune system, and family history. If you think you are suffering from IBS, it is important to speak to your doctor right away. Sometimes it’s important to go with your gut!

Symptoms of IBS that we often ignore

The lifetime risk for a Canadian to develop IBS is 30%, and studies show that up to 20% of Canadians may suffer from IBS at any given time. Although each person has a unique IBS experience, here are common symptoms that are often ignored:

• Prolonged cramping and abnormal pain in the abdominal area

• Unpredictable and inconsistent bowel habits

• Regular bloating

• Recurring constipation

• Mucus in the stool

Remember, only about 40% of those who have IBS symptoms seek help from a doctor. If you or anyone you know suffers from IBS symptoms (e.g. abdominal pain or cramping, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas), then you should contact a doctor to see if you have IBS.

#flushingoutIBS

What specific symptoms point to an IBS-D diagnosis?

Did you know there are different types of IBS? One major type of IBS, called IBS-D, is when diarrhea often occurs, along with other IBS symptoms – such as cramps, abdominal pain, and bloating.

To learn more about IBS-D, we invite you to watch this video by Dr. Jamie Gregor: What specific symptoms point to an IBS-D diagnosis?

IBS Symptoms in Women

We have talked a lot about IBS symptoms in general – however, there are also symptoms that are more common in females. In fact, studies have shown that IBS is more common in women than men. Here are the 10 most common symptoms:

1. Constipation

2. Diarrhea

3. Bloating

4. Urinary incontinence

5. Pelvic organ prolapses

6. Pelvic pain

7. Painful sex

8. Worsening of menstrual symptoms

9. Fatigue

10. Stress

In addition to being a woman, other IBS risk factors include being under 50, a family history of IBS, or having a mental disorder, such as anxiety or depression. If you are experiencing IBS symptoms, you should speak to a doctor about it to get the advice and treatment you may need.

IBS and the coronavirus (COVID-19) – What you need to know

As COVID-19 continues to impact individuals and communities globally, it is important to be aware of the potential the impact of coronavirus on the digestive tract.

According to the American Gastroenterological Association, regarding recently discovered coronavirus, a significant portion of coronavirus patients have diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and/or abdominal discomfort before respiratory symptoms. It is also important to note that the virus can be detected in the stool, and therefore, hand washing (for at least 20 seconds) is crucial to prevent fecal-oral transmission.

If you or anyone you know has any gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms or distress, it is important that you speak to a doctor. Many doctors are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone.

CDHF Talks: IBS and the Gut Microbiome

In the CDHF (Canadian Digestive Health Fondation) series of videos, Dr. Turbide goes over all things IBS – what it is, the different types of IBS, if your microbiome can be a cause of your IBS, and tips on managing IBS. He also talks about all of the treatment options available – whether that be prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, or psycho-social interventions. Use the link below to access all the videos: https://cdhf.ca/digestive-disorders/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs/ibs-and-the-gut-microbiome/

What is the real effect of stress on our gut? And tips to reduce stress

According to the GI Society, several studies show that stressful life events are associated with the onset of symptoms, or worsening of symptoms, in several digestive conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), IBS, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcer disease.

Some tips to reduce stress and anxiety include choosing our foods carefully, becoming better breathers, taking time out for ourselves, and monitoring our negative thoughts.

To learn more about GI disorders and stress, visit: https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/stress-and-your-gut/

Theories about IBS and stress

Did you know that up to 60% of IBS sufferers also have some form of an anxiety disorder, and another 20% suffer from depression? In addition to the gut-brain axis, there are several theories for this: (1) IBS sufferers may be more sensitive to emotional troubles, (2) anxiety and stress can make the mind more aware of bowel movements or colon spasms, and (3) IBS can be triggered by our immune system, which is affected by stress.

It is normal to feel anxious and stressed while we deal with the effects of this pandemic. We know this situation is stressful for everyone, but people living with IBS or psychiatric disorders may be finding it especially difficult to cope.

If you or someone you know needs help either managing their IBS or stress, it is important to speak to a doctor. Many doctors and clinics are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone with a healthcare professional instead of going into the office.

Back to school and dealing with stress

We realize the stress that can come with sending children back to school in the thick of a pandemic. According to the GI society, several studies show that stressful life events are associated with the onset of symptoms, or worsening of symptoms, in numerous digestive conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), IBS, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcer disease.

Some tips to reduce stress and anxiety include choosing our foods carefully, becoming better breathers, taking time out for ourselves, and monitoring our negative thoughts.

To learn more about GI disorders and stress, visit: https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/stress-and-your-gut/

Recent survey on IBS patients:

Did you know that in a recent survey of IBS-D patients, about 40% of severe IBS-D patients were not were not taking any prescription medications? Furthermore, over 60% of patients with severe IBS-D were expressing a willingness to receive regular treatment. It was also found that most IBS-D patients expressed feeling “frustrated”, “worried, “depressed” and “sad” about their disease.

If you suffer from IBS, then the first step is to have a medical examination by a family physician or gastroenterologist. Currently, it is estimated that only about 40% of those who have IBS symptoms seek help from a physician. If you need to speak to a doctor, many are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone.

Setting the record straight about the acronyms

IBS? IBS-D? IBD? People often confuse irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While these two disorders have share similar names, they have distinct differences.

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal syndrome – it is not a disease, but a group of symptoms that may cause cramping, bouts of diarrhea, and constipation. In fact, IBS takes many forms including: IBS-C (causing constipation), IBS-D (causing diarrhea) or IBS-M (a mix of constipation and diarrhea). IBS is difficult to diagnose and can be debilitating and seriously affect the way someone lives their everyday life.

IBD is a chronic inflammation affecting the gastrointestinal tract. It is classified as consisting of Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), which are autoimmune diseases. IBD can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, such as including diarrhea, abdominal pain, bleeding, anemia, and weight loss.

If you think you may have IBS or IBD, it is important to speak to your doctor right away. It is also possible to have both IBD and IBS.

The Importance of Managing Stress for People who Suffer from IBS

The Canadian Digestive Health Foundation suggests several different ways to manage stress for those who suffer from IBS:

1. Push your health care professional for a firm diagnosis – IBS can be difficult to diagnose and it may take time.

2. Be open about your condition – IBS patients often suffer in silence due to the embarrassing nature of their symptoms but talking about IBS can help relieve some of the stress.

3. Exercise – many studies show that low-to-moderate activities can help reduce IBS flare ups.

4. Be open to different types of treatment – IBS can be managed through medication, therapies, and various life-style changes. Talk to your doctor to see what types of treatment options may be suitable for you.

If you would like to have a more in depth read about these tips – visit: https://cdhf.ca/health-lifestyle/the-importance-of-managing-stress-for-people-who-suffer-from-ibs/

The mysteries of IBS

The cause of IBS remains a mystery, and treatment continue to pose a real challenge. Did you know that IBS can begin in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood, and can resolve unexpectedly for periods throughout an individual’s lifespan, returning later in some cases? And despite its high prevalence, doctors still do not know exactly what causes it. IBS treatment options involve diet and lifestyle modifications, fibre supplements, probiotics, and medications.

Most IBS patients take an individualized approach to manage the disorder; thus, it is important to speak with your healthcare professional before making any changes to medication or diet.

Role of stress in development and a modulation of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms

Did you know psychological stress plays an important a role in the development of IBS? More and more clinical and experimental evidence is showing that IBS is a combination of irritable bowel and irritable brain! As mentioned in our previous posts, this has to do with the bidirectional gut-brain axis, which has been implicated in IBS pathophysiology. Recent reports indicate that the co-morbidity of stress and IBS roughly ranges from 40% to 60% and has been reported as high as 80%.

If you are finding it difficult to deal with your anxiety, stress, and/or IBS, it is important to talk to your doctor right away. Make sure you are getting the right medical treatment and ask if other types therapies might help.

Diabetes and Dysbiosis (2)

Why do diabetes and IBS often co-exist? Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), makes it difficult for the stomach and small intestines to function normally. At the same time, IBS itself can make it harder for your body to control post-prandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels.

Often, people with diabetes suffer from undiagnosed and untreated IBS and other digestive health conditions.

If you are experiencing IBS symptoms, it might be time you speak to your doctor. Many doctors are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone with a health care professional, instead of going into the office.

Diabetes and Dysbiosis (1)

Did you know that many people that are diabetic also experience IBS and IBS-like symptoms? 10-20% of adults worldwide suffer from functional gastrointestinal problems. Moreover, up to 75% of people with diabetes have at least one gastrointestinal symptom.

It has been found that the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms is closely linked to glycemic control, meaning the worse the glycemic control, the worse the GI symptoms.

12 Signs of dysbiosis

Dysbiosis is caused by an imbalance of beneficial and harmful microbes in the intestine.

Patients diagnosed with dysbiosis are known to experience the following symptoms that significantly affect their quality of life, such as:

1. Fatigue

2. Bloating

3. Chest pain

4. Nausea

5. Upset stomach

6. Constipation

7. Diarrhea

8. Trouble urinating

9. Rash

10. Bad breath

11. Trouble concentrating

12. Anxiety or depression

Stress from COVID19 for IBS Suffers

For IBS suffers, the additional stress resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic can be especially difficult. Here are some tips to help you with your stomach woes:

1. Eat healthy and avoid food items such as fatty or fried foods, alcohol, caffeine, and soda.

2. Improve your sleeping habits and get enough sleep.

3. Remain active and exercise regularly.

4. If you are taking medication for IBS, set reminders and take your medication as prescribed.

5. Reduce stress by staying social with online gatherings, or with neighbours from afar.

If you feel your IBS symptoms have worsened and need to speak to a doctor, call your doctor ahead of time to ask how to proceed. Many doctors are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone with a health care professional, instead of going into the office.

How to manage IBS-D?

Is stress from the COVID-19 outbreak upsetting your stomach? Stress can trigger a wide range of other gut symptoms including heartburn, nausea, bloating and changes in bowel pattern. These symptoms of stress could be in part provoked by the gut-brain axis. The gut microbiota has been implicated in a variety of stress-related conditions including anxiety, depression and IBS.

As recommended by the World Health Organization, during times of stress, pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Engage in healthy activities that you enjoy and find relaxing. Remember to exercise regularly, keep regular sleep routines, and eat healthy food.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, it might important to speak with a doctor. Many doctors are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone.

Signs of dysbiosis

Gut dysbiosis is caused by an imbalance of beneficial and harmful microbes in the intestine. Alternations to the bowel microflora and its activities are now believed to be contributing factors to many chronic and degenerative diseases – such as IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Some signs of dysbiosis include:

• Experiencing diarrhea, gas or bloating

• Upset stomach, nausea, or constipation

• Suffering from a brain fog, anxiety, depression or fatigue

• Difficulty urinating or vaginal/rectal itching

• Bad smell or taste in your mouth

If you have any of these signs, it might be time you speak to your doctor about IBS. If you need to speak to a doctor right away or if you have an upcoming appointment, call ahead of time to ask how to proceed. Many doctors and clinics are making telemedicine available to their patients, allowing you to video chat or talk on the phone with a health care professional, instead of going into the office.

How to react in case of symptoms?

A recent study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology reported that patients who develop new-onset digestive symptoms, like diarrhea, after a possible exposure to COVID-19 should be suspected for the illness. The study reported that in 204 patients with COVID-19, 103 patients reported a digestive symptom such as diarrhea, nausea, lack of appetite or vomiting.

If you think you need to see a doctor because you feel unwell – before seeking medical assistance from your physician, a clinic or an emergency room department, it might be advisable to call ahead and to see if it is appropriate to go to their office, go elsewhere, or see your doctor virtually.

What to do if you suffer from IBS symptoms?

IBS is one of those health conditions that can be difficult to talk about. This is especially difficult right now, given the social-distancing measures that are in place. If you or anyone you know suffers from IBS symptoms (e.g. abdominal pain or cramping, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas), and you need to speak to a doctor – it is advisable to call your clinic or speak with your health professional to see what options are available. Some may be able to provide a telehealth or virtual medical appointments; others may ask to postpone.

The ABCDs of IBS

If you suffer from the following ongoing symptoms, you might have IBS:

• Abdominal Pain

• Bloating

• Constipation

• Diarrhea

For more information, visit https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/ibs/

Here is IBS by the numbers - 10 quick facts!

1. 2 in 3 IBS sufferers are female

2. 1 in 3 IBS suffers are men

3. The lifetime risk for a Canadian to develop IBS is 30%

4. IBS could affect as many as 13-20% of Canadians at any given time

5. IBS has been estimated to cost over $350 million in direct and over $1 billion in indirect health care and productivity costs each year

6. Worldwide it's estimated that 10-15% of the population suffer from IBS

7. Most persons with IBS are under the age of 50 – but IBS affects people of all ages

8. 40% of people have mild IBS, 35% moderate IBS, and 25% severe IBS

9. 20 to 40% of all visits to gastroenterologists are due to IBS symptoms

10. In Eastern countries, it appears men with IBS are 4 times more likely than women to consult doctors

April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month – IBS Awareness Month is listed as a National Promotion Day by the Government of Canada. Health organizations, professional health communities and other health professionals use these special times to raise health awareness and deliver public health, preventative and clinical information. More often than not, those who suffer from IBS find themselves on a quest for answers about their disease, and how to better manage their symptoms. Therefore, we have created resources and information to help support those with IBS and encourage them to seek treatment.

If you have IBS, you are not alone — it is estimated that roughly 13-20% of Canadians (approximately 5 – 7.5 million individuals) are living with IBS. Furthermore, the lifetime risk for a Canadian to develop IBS is about 30%. Although these numbers are staggering, only about 40% of IBS suffers seek help. Typically, IBS manifests in early adulthood, and it is more common in women (about 2 out of 3 IBS suffers are female). However, it important to note that people of all ages and gender subgroups can have IBS, from young children to the elderly. Currently, it is estimated that the annual economic burden of IBS in Canada $6.5 billion. Furthermore, Canadians with IBS miss an average of 13 days of work per year, leading to a further $8 billion in lost productivity.

IBS is generally characterized by recurring or chronic bouts of abdominal pain or discomfort in association with eating and/or drinking. IBS presents as one of the three predominant subtypes: (1) IBS with constipation (IBS-C); (2) IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D); and (3) mixed IBS (IBS-M). IBS-D is the most common IBS subtype and comprises ∼40% of all cases. While the exact pathophysiology of IBS-D is not clear, its causes include:

• Abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines (gut), affecting your digestion

• Overly sensitive nerves (or “receptors”) in the gut, making any abdominal discomfort feel worse than normal

• The after-effect of a severe stomach bug, which may have started as either a virus or a bacterial infection

• An imbalance of the gut microflora, known as dysbiosis

If you or anyone you know suffers from IBS symptoms (e.g. abdominal pain or cramping, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas), then you should contact a doctor to see if you have IBS. While there is no cure for the disorder, treatments are available to manage some of the symptoms and discomfort.