Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder, affecting an estimated 5-10% of the global population. Despite its prevalence, many people are unaware of what IBS truly is, often mistaking it for occasional stomach issues. IBS is a chronic condition that can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits like diarrhoea or constipation. What makes IBS particularly tricky is its unpredictable nature and the fact that it affects individuals differently.
It is important to know that IBS can be categorised into two main types: IBS-C and IBS-D. While IBS-C is characterised by mostly constipation symptoms like hard or lumpy stools, IBS-D can be identified by mostly loose or watery stools. In this article, we discuss the latter—irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea (IBS-D)—in detail, from its triggers to management strategies.
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What Is IBS-D?
IBS-D, or irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea, is a subtype of IBS characterised by repeated episodes of loose or watery stools accompanied by abdominal discomfort or pain. People with IBS-D often feel the need to visit the restroom and experience constant bloating and cramping, which can interfere with daily activities.
Unlike other conditions that cause diarrhoea, IBS-D does not cause visible damage to the digestive tract, but its symptoms can be persistent and distressing.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Amit Yelsangikar, Consultant - Medical Gastroenterology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, explains that this condition differs significantly from Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C), which is marked by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty in passing stools. “While both conditions fall under the umbrella of IBS and share common symptoms such as bloating and cramping, the key distinction lies in the predominant bowel habit: IBS-D is defined by loose or watery stools, whereas IBS-C is characterised by hard or lumpy stools,” he adds.
Common Triggers Of IBS-D
IBS-D can be influenced by a variety of triggers, which often differ from one individual to another.
Common factors that may exacerbate symptoms include dietary choices, such as the consumption of high-fat foods, dairy products, and certain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed.
A 2013 study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that out of 197 patients with IBS, 84% of participants reported gastrointestinal symptoms triggered by certain foods, particularly those with incompletely absorbed carbohydrates, like dairy, beans, apples, and flour, fatty or fried foods, histamine-releasing foods like milk, wine, and pork, and foods rich in biogenic amines.
According to Dr Yelsangikar, stress and anxiety are also significant contributors, as they can impact gut motility and sensitivity. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, can play a role in symptom severity.
The doctor says that understanding these triggers is essential for effective management, as individuals may experience unique combinations of factors that provoke their IBS-D symptoms, necessitating a personalised approach to treatment and lifestyle modifications.
Treatment Options And Management Tips For IBS-D
When considering the management of IBS-D, it is essential to explore a variety of treatment options that encompass both pharmacological interventions and lifestyle modifications, says Dr Yelsangikar.
Medications may include antidiarrheal agents, such as loperamide, and prescription options like rifaximin or eluxadoline, which can help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, the use of certain antidepressants may provide relief by addressing pain and discomfort associated with the condition.
Alongside medication, lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing IBS-D effectively. Patients are encouraged to adopt a balanced diet that minimises trigger foods, increases fibre intake, and maintains proper hydration. Regular physical activity and stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), can also significantly contribute to symptom relief and overall well-being, shares Dr Yelsangikar.
Conclusion
Living with IBS-D can be difficult, but understanding its triggers and following a healthy lifestyle with a personalised approach to diet can significantly improve quality of life. Additionally, managing your stress levels can also prevent or reduce IBS complications. If necessary, individuals can effectively control symptoms and reduce the impact of IBS-D on daily activities with the help of medications. Consult a doctor or a healthcare provider to create a tailored treatment plan, as each person’s experience with IBS-D is unique.