long lasting IBS

Overview

Long-lasting irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects your digestive system. It causes symptoms like belly pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both) that keep coming back over months or years. It is not the same as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and does not damage your intestines.

Yes, IBS is very common. It affects about 1 in 10 people worldwide, and many cases are long-lasting.

People of any age can get IBS, but it is more often diagnosed in younger women. It can affect anyone, regardless of background or diet.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Belly pain or cramping that often improves after a bowel movement
• Bloating and gas
• Changes in stool frequency – diarrhea, constipation, or both
• Urgent need to use the bathroom
• Feeling like you haven't finished a bowel movement
• Mucus in the stool

Symptoms in children

• In children, symptoms are similar to adults: belly pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. They may also have nausea or feel full quickly after eating.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults with long-lasting IBS may have more constipation and less pain. They are also more likely to have other health conditions, so symptoms may be overlooked.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of long-lasting IBS is not known, but it is thought to be related to a problem with how the gut and brain talk to each other.
• Certain triggers can make symptoms worse, including stress, certain foods, and hormonal changes.
• A past severe gut infection (like food poisoning) can sometimes trigger long-lasting IBS.

Risk factors

• Having a family history of IBS
• Being under 50 years old
• Being female
• Having high levels of stress or anxiety
• Having food intolerances or sensitivities

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe belly pain that does not go away
• If you see blood in your stool
• If you have unexplained weight loss
• If you have a fever along with belly pain

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing symptoms that bother you, such as belly pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits that last more than a few weeks
• If your symptoms keep coming back and affect your quality of life
• Before starting any new diet or treatment, especially if you have other health conditions

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose long-lasting IBS based on your symptoms and medical history. There is no single test for IBS. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long they have lasted, and what makes them better or worse.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for conditions like celiac disease or inflammation
• Stool tests to look for infections or other problems
• Breath tests to check for lactose intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
• Colonoscopy (a camera test of your large bowel) if you have alarm symptoms or are over 50

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will review your symptoms and may use the 'Rome criteria' (a set of symptom-based rules) to confirm IBS. You may be referred to a gastroenterologist (a digestive health specialist). Most people do not need invasive tests unless there are warning signs.

Treatment

There is no cure for long-lasting IBS, but treatment can help control symptoms and improve your quality of life. Treatment often combines lifestyle changes, stress management, and sometimes medical therapy. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment.

Self-care at home

• Eat small, regular meals and avoid large or fatty meals
• Keep a food diary to identify and avoid your trigger foods
• Try a low-FODMAP diet under the guidance of a dietitian (this can help reduce symptoms)
• Stay active – moderate exercise like walking can relieve stress and help bowel function
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques, yoga, or meditation
• Stay well-hydrated, especially if you have diarrhea

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend over-the-counter products like fiber supplements or laxatives, or prescribe medications that can help with pain, diarrhea, or constipation. Some types of antidepressant medications in low doses can also help manage pain and bowel symptoms. Never take any medication without advice from your healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is almost never needed for IBS. It may be considered in very rare cases if there is a specific complication, but this is not a common treatment.

Living with this condition

Living with long-lasting IBS means learning to manage symptoms day by day. You may have good days and bad days. Many people find that understanding their triggers and having a plan for flares helps them feel more in control.

Lifestyle tips

• Find ways to reduce stress – this is key because stress can worsen symptoms
• Get enough sleep – aim for 7-8 hours per night
• Exercise regularly – even gentle activity like walking or swimming can help
• Build a routine for meals, sleep, and bathroom breaks
• Talk to your family, friends, or a counselor about how you feel

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet and regular exercise can improve IBS symptoms for many people. Work with a dietitian to find the right approach for you, such as a low-FODMAP diet. Avoid skipping meals and drink plenty of water. Gentle exercise like walking or yoga can reduce stress and help with bowel regularity.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

IBS can be frustrating and affect your mood, leading to anxiety or depression. It is common to worry about symptoms or feel embarrassed. Talking to a mental health professional, such as a therapist, can help you cope. Some people benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Prevention

Long-lasting IBS cannot always be prevented, but you may be able to reduce flare-ups by managing your triggers, eating a healthy diet, staying active, and keeping stress under control. It is not caused by something you did or did not do.

Complications

If left untreated

• Poor quality of life due to ongoing symptoms
• Pain or discomfort that affects daily activities
• Emotional stress, anxiety, or depression
• Rarely, severe diarrhea or constipation can lead to dehydration or other issues

Long-term outlook

The outlook for long-lasting IBS is good. While it is a chronic condition, most people learn to manage their symptoms and live full, active lives. Working with your healthcare team and making small changes can greatly improve how you feel.

Find support

International organisations

• International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)
• Rome Foundation

Local organisations

• NHS – Irritable Bowel Syndrome · United Kingdom

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