The fact is, there are a lot of misconceptions around medically diagnosed IBS. For one, it’s much more common than you think. Read on as we bust the most prevalent medically diagnosed IBS myths.
Myth 1: IBS is uncommon
False. Medically diagnosed IBS is a common condition, and up to 30% of Australians may experience symptoms at some point in their lifetime5. The good news is, you’re not alone, and while medically diagnosed IBS and related symptoms might be something you’d prefer to keep private, there are ways to help manage flare-ups.
Myth 2: IBS is no big deal
False. The variety of symptoms and unpredictability of flare-ups associated with medically diagnosed IBS can have a significant effect on your everyday life, from your career to your relationships and social engagements. When medically diagnosed IBS symptoms strike unexpectedly, they can interrupt your schedule in incredibly inconvenient ways. However, medically diagnosed IBS can be managed effectively, which means you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Myth 3: IBS only causes diarrhoea
False. The symptoms of medically diagnosed IBS can include both diarrhoea and constipation. Other common symptoms may include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas and nausea. Click here to find out more information about the symptoms of medically diagnosed IBS or consult your healthcare professional.
Myth 4: You can never escape the symptoms
False. The symptoms of medically diagnosed IBS can fluctuate, which makes them difficult to predict. Some people may find their symptoms worsen when they are stressed or anxious, and for some women the symptoms may be worse at certain times during the month. However, the most important thing to remember is that the symptoms can be treated, and you can seek help with managing your medically diagnosed IBS so they don’t get in the way of your professional and personal goals. Speak to your healthcare professional for advice on staying in control.
Myth 5: Easing IBS symptoms requires drastic dietary changes
False. Medically diagnosed IBS can be caused by a variety of triggers, so while food intolerance or dietary factors may contribute to your symptoms, drastic changes to your diet cannot cure your medically diagnosed IBS – they may not even have an effect at all. Thankfully, you may find that managing medically-diagnosed IBS is a lot simpler than overhauling your diet, so you don’t have to miss out on that weekend meal with your family or friends. It's a good idea to speak with your healthcare professional on whether a specialised diet may help your symptoms.
Myth 6: Herbal medicines for IBS are slow, ineffective, and only work on one functional digestive symptoms
False. Iberogast® IBS + Digestive Relief is a herbal medicine that is clinically proven and provides effective relief from functional digestive symptoms including those of medically-diagnosed IBS. The combination of medicinal herbs in Iberogast® IBS + Digestive Relief work together in a multi-targeted action to relieve multiple functional digestive symptoms and help restore gut function. These symptoms include abdominal cramps, stomach pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea and constipation. Find out more about Iberogast® IBS + Digestive Relief.