The unspoken truth about IBS

In collaboration with my younger sister, we wanted to share some knowledge and personal experience about Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

For those who do not know, IBS affects the large intestine and causes inflammation. It is a common disorder that consists of various underlying symptoms and a significant amount of discomfort. Typically anyone can be diagnosed with IBS. However, it is most common in women in their early twenties. A person can develop this syndrome later in life, and it can also stem from diseases, such as Crohn's disease. It is the second most common excuse used to call in sick from work. Wow! Kind of a shocker, but it is that common. However, living with IBS is not easy. That is why I am writing to raise awareness about living with health conditions that can alter every aspect of your life.

Stress-Induced

Statistics have shown that stress can be the number one cause of IBS. Stress can vastly overwhelm your body, not just mentally but physically. If you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, stress and anxiety can cause you to experience more severe symptoms. The higher your stress levels, the worse your symptoms get. In some cases, experts believe that IBS is more common in young adult women who are sensitive to high anxiety.

IBS has very strong correlations between stress and exacerbation of IBS symptoms. Depending on the type of IBS, stress can cause pain, diarrhea, or constipation. It is important to understand what specific stressors cause your symptoms and avoid them. -Jordan M. Davidson

Deal-breaker

In most cases, a person with IBS will have a hard time handling everyday aspects of their life. They may not feel capable enough to perform their best at work. Therefore, that individual misses out on a lot. Many jobs may find it hard to keep such an employee, thus leading to that employee's termination, or they quit.

Speaking from experience, I've had near accidents in front of customers and coworkers. Naturally, I felt that my bathroom needs were less important than helping the company make money. When an employer can't put their employee's needs as a top priority, that makes that individual's life much harder. Regardless of the incentives, being incapable of addressing my basic human needs is a deal-breaker.

Symptoms

IBS is a condition that affects everyone differently. While men and women can get IBS, women have more severe symptoms due to higher stress levels. Irritable Bowel Syndrome isn't hereditary, but it is known to show up after experiencing trauma or a high-stress event. One person may have frequent diarrhea, while another may have bouts of constipation. The most common traits of IBS are; bloating, abdominal cramping, and more persistent bowel movements.

Patients with IBS are known to deal with off and on constipation or diarrhea. Some are known to go days with one or the other. If you manage your stress levels and exercise while eating healthy, the symptoms won't be severe. While experiencing high symptoms, you must stay hydrated!

Diagnosis

If you believe you suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, it can be hard to get a diagnosis right away. Most doctors will recommend that you first try to eat certain foods and testing if it's just a food allergy. That is because IBS isn't necessarily easy to diagnose.

You may have to go through a few various tests before getting a proper diagnosis. Yes, you will have to collect samples of your most unusual stools. You could also do a colonoscopy. Those are probably the most accurate options. After you retrieve your diagnostic, I suggest that you get a copy of the paperwork. You will need it for future jobs and places of education. That way, they are accountable if they don't allow you to relieve yourself whenever the need arises.

Treatment and Medication

The best option for treatment is to change your diet and exercise regularly. IBS can trigger food allergies such as lactose intolerance and sensitivity to spicy foods. You may want to ease up on the coffee, too. If you particularly enjoy consuming these foods, eat them in moderation. I would also suggest choosing dairy-free options if possible.

There are various forms of medication that you can use to help ease your symptoms. Check with your doctor and discuss what could be the best option for you. Some examples of alternative over-the-counter medications include; supplements, vitamins, herbal teas, and heating pads. The heating pad and medicine to relieve symptoms, such as abdominal pains, will come in handy quite a bit.

Perseverance

IBS is not a life-threatening disease. You will still be able to live a wholesome life. There may be some days that you experience turmoil, but you can persevere. Many of us still do a lot and create better opportunities for ourselves. If you are diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, don't lose hope. I know some days can be discomforting, stressful, and overwhelming. However, as technology and medicine advance, more options for treatment become available. There are already many remedies to treat IBS. Consider the choices and find what's right for you. Don't hesitate to get the ball rolling and contact your doctor for guidance.

Underlying

While my sister and I are in no way experts, we believe that we should share our experiences with those who may also relate. Having a life-long condition that causes almost consistent discomfort can make you depressed. Some days you may feel suicidal or wish for the feeling to go away. I used to have trouble sleeping and would spend nights bathing, hoping that a warm bath would ease the symptoms. It comes and goes more occasionally, but I must admit, I would spend countless hours sobbing. IBS is an underlying, invisible condition. No one sees the discomfort or embarrassment a person experiences.

We urge you to get tested if you haven't yet or follow a health plan to ease your symptoms. No one should have to endure this alone. Reach out to friends, family, and employers for support. There's no reason to be embarrassed or hide something that affects every aspect of your life.

Cites & sources I used;

http://healthtips-lifestyle.blogspot.com/2012/04/ibs-symptoms-in-women.htmlhttps://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/experts-managing-stress-with-ibs.aspx#:~:text=IBS%20has%20very%20strong%20correlations%20between%20stress%20and,specific%20stressors%20cause%20your%20symptoms%20and%20avoid%20them.