The Worst Things About Having IBS

It Hurts

IBS pain is no small thing.

For many people with IBS, their pain can be crippling and disabling.

IBS pain can be sharp, stabbing, and intense.

woman doubled over in pain

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People often describe it as if their guts are being twisted by a powerful force.

Gas pains and intestinal contractions can make a person double over.

The pain can be in the lower back, lower belly, or radiate throughout the body.

Many women describe it as being worse than labor pains during childbirth.

For some, the pain is so badthat they faintor come close to it.

Frequently, there is no seeming rhyme nor reason as to when the pain will hit.

This makes it very disruptive to all of the other aspects of one’s life, e.g.

work, family obligations, and leisure activities.

IBS causes people to have to miss work, cancel outings and miss out on social gatherings.

“How will I manage that?

“, “How will I feel?

“, and “I could never commit to something like that.

“, are common thoughts for people who cannot count on their bodies to feel well.

People who don’t have IBS can enjoy food without worry.

Previously loved foods may now be off-limits.

Often people with IBS skip meals altogether so as to not get sick.

Many avoid eating out socially - it is just not worth the risk.

People who have IBS often have to choose clothing with flexible waistlines to accommodate severebloating and distension.

Many people with IBS only wear dark pants in case ofbathroom accidents.

(Thongs are of course, simply out of the question for a woman with IBS.)

This may mean that IBS can have a very significant negative impact on a person’s finances.

Children lose time with a parent who needs to be alone to deal with symptoms.

Significant others find themselves missing out on social opportunities.

Over-the-counter acetaminophen can help, but dont use NSAIDs due to gastrointestinal side effects.

2021;116(1):17-44. doi:10.14309/ajg.0000000000001036