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Treatments

IBS Treatment

IBS, short for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is one of the most common digestive system disorders, affects up to one-third of people in the UK, causing symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea or changes in bowel habits (more/less frequent). These discomforts arise from miscommunication between the gut and brain, leading to varied levels of severity and impacting daily life. While the root cause of IBS remains unknown and there is no cure, but the good news is that, at Ashcroft Pharmacy, you can access prescription-strength treatments forIBS like MebeverineColofac, Colpermin, and Alverine. Simply complete an online assessment form, and our pharmacist will review it. If suitable, medication will be prescribed, dispensed, and delivered to your address.

 

Overview

What is IBS?

IBS, also known as irritable bowel, spastic colon, mucous colitis, or spastic colitis, can show-up with symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. 

It's a chronic condition affecting the digestive system, twice as common in women compared to men. It's important to note that IBS is different from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as it doesn't cause inflammation.

Around 10% to 20% of people in the UK and 10% to 15% in the US live with IBS. It usually starts in young people, but anyone can get it. It's less common for IBS to begin after age 50.

These symptoms can come and go, lasting for days, weeks, or even months.

Image contains information about IBS - Ashcroft Pharmacy uk

Can I test myself for IBS?

No, there is no home test to definitively diagnose IBS. You can't diagnose IBS on your own. However, keeping a detailed record of your symptoms can help your doctor. Include information like:

  • What you ate before symptoms started
  • How often symptoms occur
  • How long you've been having symptoms
  • What makes your symptoms worse or better
  • This information can be very useful for your doctor in diagnosing IBS.

Are there any clinical tests for IBS?

There is no specific clinical test to diagnose IBS directly, but tests can help rule out other conditions. Your GP may arrange:

  • A blood test to check for issues like celiac disease (an autoimmune disorder where ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine)
  • Tests on a stool sample to check for infections and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Further tests in a hospital are usually not needed unless your GP is unsure about the diagnosis. Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms can also help your doctor in diagnosing IBS. You can find more information about
Diagnosing Irritable Bowel Syndrome here.

Treatments

What are the available treatment options for IBS in the UK?

In the UK, various medications are available to treat IBS symptoms. These medications work in different ways to provide relief. Doctors may recommend combining these medications to personalize treatment for each patient.

Treatment for IBS varies based on symptoms and severity, and can include medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments.

Healthy diet

Food can have a significant impact on conditions like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) due to its influence on gastrointestinal function and symptom severity.

To manage IBS symptoms, follow a healthy diet outlined in the NHS Eatwell guide. Adjust as needed based on food triggers.

Here are some eating instructions to minimize IBS symptoms include:

  • Eat slowly, maintain regular meal times,
  • Drink at least 8 cups of water a day, avoid late-night eating, limit fizzy drinks, alcohol, tea, and coffee
  • Try to keep a food diary (helps track what you eat and your symptoms).

Consider a low FODMAP diet, consulting a dietitian for guidance. You can check the NHS video and IBS Network website for more info on IBS and diet.

 

 

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of IBS?

IBS symptoms can vary from person to person, but some of the most common signs include:

Digestive issues:

  • Constipation, diarrhea, or a mix of both
  • Abdominal pain or cramping, normally relieved by having a bowel movement
  • Abnormal bowel habits, such as urgency to go or incomplete emptying
  • Passing mucus in stool

Discomfort and bloating:

Gas, bloating, and distention (swelling of the abdomen)

Other symptoms:

  • Feeling tired
  • Nausea (feeling sick)
  • Backache
  • Bladder problems like urgency or difficulty urinating

How IBS can affect bowel habits?

  • Around a third of IBS patients experience constipation (a problem with passing stool) most often.
  • Another third experience diarrhea (stools are loose and watery) most often.
  • The remaining third experience a combination of both, unpredictably.

FAQ

  • At what age does IBS typically happen?

    Most Common: IBS often begins in people under 40 years old, with symptoms starting in their teens or early adulthood.

    Can Occur at Any Age: Although less common, it's essential to know that IBS can appear at any point in life, including after age 50.

    Age as a Red Flag: If IBS symptoms emerge after age 50, it's recommended to consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes.

  • Who does IBS affect more, women or men?

    Women often experience more frequent and severe IBS symptoms during menstruation, including loose stools, bloating, and worsening abdominal pain.

Colpermin IBS Relief Capsules

Medication Ashcroft Pharmacy
100 Capsules £0.00
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200 Capsules £0.00
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Alverine Citrate

Medication Ashcroft Pharmacy
60mg x100 Capsules £9.99
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60mg x200 Capsules £18.99
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120mg x60 Capsules £9.99
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120mg x120 Capsules £18.99
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Colofac 135mg For IBS Relief

Medication Ashcroft Pharmacy
135mg x15 Tablets £4.99
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135mg x100 Tablets £14.99
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135mg x200 Tablets £27.99
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Mebeverine 135mg Tablets

Medication Ashcroft Pharmacy
135mg x100 Tablets £9.99
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135mg x200 Tablets £18.99
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