17 Jan I think I have IBS, now what?
If you believe you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and are confused about your next steps, look no further! Here we will outline the best IBS treatment approach. If you’re not sure what IBS is, you can READ MORE HERE explaining some common symptoms and causes.
What is the first step to diagnosing IBS
A really important first step is to check in with your GP for diagnosis. Part of this includes ruling out other causes of your gastrointestinal upset, as other conditions can cause similar symptoms. The specific types and extensiveness of these tests will depend on the specific symptoms you may be exhibiting.
Some common tests you’ll likely experience with your GP to help with your potential IBS diagnosis include screening and diagnostic tests for:
- Coeliac Disease via blood tests. Note that you’ll need to be consuming gluten for these tests to be accurate
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease and bowel cancer via stool samples. You may also be recommended a colonoscopy for detailed testing and to rule out these conditions more thoroughly
- Endometriosis via laparoscopy
- Irregular thyroid function via blood tests
From there, based on the type of symptoms you’re experiencing you’ll likely then be diagnosed with a specific type: IBS-D (mostly experiencing diarrhoea), IBS-C (mostly experiencing constipation), IBS-M (alternating between loose stools and constipation), or IBS-U (undefined subtype, varying symptoms).
After being diagnosed with IBS what is the best treatment
Your next crucial step is to then check in with an Accredited Practising Dietitian who has done further studies in IBS and the Low FODMAP diet. The two of you will work together through your management plan. This typically starts with a detailed initial assessment:
- History of symptoms and potential previous strategies of management
- Assessment of current/baseline symptoms (a food/symptom diary may be recommended if this isn’t clear)
- Determining current dietary intake, including water and liquid consumption
- Understanding lifestyle factors and eating behaviours, which can significantly contribute to symptoms
- Education on IBS and principles of management options (lifestyle, dietary or both)
You’ll then be set up with first steps to alleviate symptoms. This may include adjusting some lifestyle factors, such as slowing down when eating, chewing adequately, regular exercise or stress management. You may also/alternatively be recommended dietary adjustments, such as the Low FODMAP diet (CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FODMAP), changes to fibre type/amount or reducing other common trigger foods or drinks.
It is important to regularly check in with your dietitian in order to get the best outcome possible. IBS is complex, so it can often take a bit of time, as well as some trial and error to find your individual management plan and symptom management strategy.
Alex Stone
Dietitian & Nutritionist
Alex has completed further studies and experience in the low FODMAP diet and IBS Treatment.
Want to learn more? Click below for some more related information
References:
https://www.monashfodmap.com/blog/tests-ibs/
https://www.monashfodmap.com/blog/research-update-what-makes-good-3-step-fodmap-diet/