🌱 Understanding IBS: A Closer Look at Digestive Health 🌿
As your local GP clinic, we're here to guide you through the intricacies of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (#IBS) – especially during
🔍 Spotting the Signs: Some telltale symptoms of IBS include:
-Abdominal pain or discomfort
-Stomach bloating and wind
-Chronic diarrhoea or constipation, or a frustrating dance between the two
-Feeling of incomplete bowel movement (even after a poo) and nausea
-Often, relief comes after passing wind or faeces.
🤔 Unraveling the Cause: While the exact cause remains elusive, common triggers for IBS include diet, stress, infection, and medicines. You might notice certain foods exacerbating your symptoms, though these "trigger foods" vary from person to person. Your symptoms may have kicked off after an infection like gastroenteritis ('gastro'), periods of heightened stress, or due to certain medications. If you suspect any of these triggers, consulting with your doctor is key to finding the right treatment plan.
💡 Navigating the Journey: Dealing with IBS can be challenging, but with the assistance of your general practitioner, dietitian, and possibly gastrointestinal specialist there are strategies to help manage symptoms.
⏰ Seeking Support: When should you reach out to your doctor? It's essential to schedule an appointment if:
-You're worried about your symptoms, especially if they're severe or persistent
-You notice blood in your stools
-You experience unexplained or unintentional weight loss
-You develop a fever or severe diarrhoea
Remember, your health and well-being matter. We're here to support you every step of the way. 💬💚
