April is IBS Awareness month and sufferers are being encouraged not to suffer in silence. IBS – or irritable bowel syndrome – is a common complaint, but difficult to diagnose. Sufferers experience chronic, recurrent bowel problems and abdominal pain. Bowel problems may include constipation, diarrhoea, pain or a combination of all three.

IBS is surprisingly common – between 10-20% of people are thought to suffer from the condition. It most often affects people between 20-30 years old and is twice as common in women as in men.

The frequency and severity of IBS symptoms are not predictable and can vary. If it is not managed, the disorder can disrupt many aspects of someone’s life.

While the cause of IBS is not known, it is thought that the symptoms are brought on by a disruption to the interaction between brain, nervous system and gut.

IBS cannot be cured, however once the condition is managed, IBS may cause minimal problems. Self-help – dietary and lifestyle advice – is key to managing the condition, and many of the medicines recommended for managing symptoms can be purchased from your pharmacy.

Speak to your pharmacist if you think you may have IBS. Don’t suffer in silence.