Julie Thompson
Information Manager, Guts UK
Did you know diarrhoea, constipation or a mix of both are the most common symptoms of IBS? We’re lifting the (toilet) lid on knowing when troublesome bowels might need more attention.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common digestive condition in the UK, affecting an estimated 5–10% of the population. 1 Despite its prevalence, awareness remains surprisingly low. Many people are unclear about what IBS is or may not even realise they are living with it.
With a mission to help the nation get to grips with gut health, Guts UK plays a vital role in education, research and awareness. Tackling stigma is central to its work.
As Information Manager Julie Thompson explains, “There’s a taboo surrounding our toilet habits and, as a nation, we don’t like talking about our guts. However, your poo is an indication of your health, and it’s important to check it. Being aware of the colour, consistency and how often you empty your bowels helps you understand your ‘normal’ and spot when something might not be right.”
What is IBS?
IBS is characterised by changes in bowel habits, including diarrhoea, constipation or a mix of both. Some people may find themselves rushing to the toilet one day, then struggling to pass a bowel movement the next. Other common symptoms include abdominal (belly) pain or cramping, bloating, wind and visible distension and mucus in the stool.
If you experience these symptoms for three weeks or more, it’s best to seek advice from your GP. Initial steps may include discussing your symptoms, reviewing your family medical history and carrying out simple tests such as blood work or a stool sample. From there, your GP can advise on next steps.
It’s also worth noting that IBS can change over time. For example, someone who typically experiences constipation may later develop more frequent diarrhoea. This can still fall within the spectrum of IBS.
Being aware of the colour, consistency and how often you empty your bowels helps you understand your ‘normal’ and spot when something might not be right
Getting to grips with IBS
Guts UK also explores digestive health through its webinar series, Getting to Grips with…. The latest session focuses on IBS, featuring healthcare professionals alongside people with lived experience sharing their stories. You can catch up by searching “Guts UK Charity” on YouTube.
You can contact the Guts UK Helpline on 0300 102 4887 (Monday to Friday, 10 am to 2pm, excluding bank holidays) or visit gutscharity.org.uk/helpline to complete an online form.
[1] Vasant, D.H. (2021). British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines on the management of irritable bowel syndrome. https://tinyurl.com/yc2v6fd3.
