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| Causes |
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There is no known organic cause of IBS. However doctors have highlighted four trigger factors which may worsen symptoms:
Diet
- Eating causes contractions or spasms of the colon. This may result in an urge to have a bowel movement, normally within 30 to 60 minutes after a meal. In people with IBS, the urge may come sooner, with cramps and diarrhoea.
- Contractions may be stronger after a large meal or a meal containing a large amount of saturated fat.
- Other common food culprits include wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, milk products, alcohol and drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or colas. Also gas-producing foods including beans and certain vegetables like broccoli or cabbage.
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| Stress, conflict, or emotional upsets |
- Stress and strong emotions can affect the bowel as it is controlled in part by the autonomic nervous system.
- The bowel responds to emotions and stressful situations; the colon may contract too much or too little or absorb too much or too little water resulting in constipation or diarrhoea.
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| Female hormones |
- Researchers have found that women with IBS may have more symptoms during their menstrual periods, suggesting that reproductive hormones can exacerbate IBS problems.
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| Certain medication |
- Medication such as iron tablets, painkillers, antibiotics and antacids can also affect the function of the bowel and produce symptoms such as constipation and diarrhoea.
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| You can find helpful information about how to deal with aggravating factors in the helpful advice section of this website. |
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| Options for treating the symptoms of IBS |
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| Anti-stress exercises |
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