Living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be unpredictable. Some days are fine, while others are overshadowed by pain, bloating, and urgency. These symptom flare-ups can disrupt your daily routine, impact your mental wellbeing, and make even simple tasks feel challenging. Understanding the symptoms, triggers, and treatments can help you feel more in control and manage flare-ups effectively.
IBS is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine (colon) and causes a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. It’s classified as a functional bowel disorder, which means there’s no visible inflammation or damage, but the digestive system doesn’t work as it should [1].
There are three main types of IBS:
IBS-D: Diarrhoea is the dominant symptom.
IBS-C: Constipation is more common.
IBS-M: A mix of both diarrhoea and constipation [2].
Triggers and symptoms can vary from person to person, but with the right approach, it’s possible to manage the condition and reduce flare-ups.
An IBS flare-up is a period when symptoms become more intense. These episodes can last for a few hours or several days, depending on the individual and the underlying cause.
Pain is usually felt in the lower abdomen and may feel sharp, crampy, or achy. It often eases after a bowel movement and may come and go throughout the day.
Sudden changes in bowel habits are a hallmark of IBS. You might feel the urge to go immediately after eating or go several days without a bowel movement.
IBS often causes excessive gas and a sensation of fullness. This bloating can make clothes feel tight and lead to discomfort, especially in the evening.
You might feel a strong, sudden need to go to the toilet, but still feel like you haven’t completely emptied your bowels afterwards.
Noticing white or clear mucus in your stool is common during flare-ups. While not usually a cause for concern, it’s a sign that your digestive system is irritated [1].
Flare-ups are often triggered by a combination of physical, emotional, and dietary factors. Learning what sets off your symptoms is key to managing them.
The gut-brain axis plays a big role in IBS. Stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen symptoms. In fact, many people report flare-ups during periods of emotional stress. Read more: 12 signs of an unhealthy gut
Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause can intensify symptoms, which is why IBS symptoms in females can differ from those in males.
Common culprits include lactose, gluten, and high-FODMAP foods (short-chain carbs that are poorly absorbed). Keeping a food diary can help identify your personal triggers [4].
Some people develop post-infectious IBS after a stomach bug or after taking antibiotics, which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.
While trigger foods vary from person to person, some common items tend to worsen symptoms.
When your gut is feeling sensitive, it’s best to eat simple, easy-to-digest foods.
Learn more about nutrition and hydration
A typical IBS flare-up can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. Severe IBS flare-ups may linger longer, especially if stress or food triggers aren’t resolved. Managing symptoms early, through diet, stress reduction, and hydration, can help shorten the duration of a flare-up.
While there’s no instant cure, some steps can help settle symptoms quickly:
These methods can help settle an IBS flare-up, especially when symptoms are mild to moderate [3].
There’s currently no known cure for IBS, but the good news is that symptoms can be effectively managed. With the right lifestyle changes and medical support, many people find long-term relief and go months without a flare-up. A personalised approach that targets your specific triggers offers the best chance of reducing flare-ups and improving daily life [1].
Managing IBS involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and professional guidance. Here’s what can help:
Your GP may suggest:
Book a consultation to receive an online prescription
A long-term low FODMAP diet or elimination diet can identify and reduce food triggers. It’s best done under guidance from a dietitian [4].
Mindfulness, yoga, and regular exercise can improve symptoms by calming the nervous system and supporting the gut-brain axis.
GPs and dietitians can help you:
While IBS doesn’t cause permanent damage to your digestive tract, it’s important to recognise red flags that could point to a more serious issue:
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical advice right away. A GP can help rule out other conditions and offer tailored support [3].
IBS is a complex condition, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Learning to recognise your triggers, making supportive lifestyle changes, and reaching out for professional help can make all the difference. Whether you're in the middle of a flare-up or trying to prevent the next one, there’s support available.
Book an online GP consultation today and take the first step towards calmer, more comfortable gut health.