April is not only the beginning of spring but also IBS Awareness Month. As we move into a new season, it’s vital to take care of our health and well-being by being mindful of our digestive health. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be a challenging condition to live with, causing discomfort and disruption to daily life. However, with increased awareness and understanding of IBS, we can help those affected find the necessary support and treatment. In this article, we’ll explore what IBS is, what causes it, and how to manage the symptoms.
April marks Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month, an opportunity to learn more about this condition and its impact on everyday life. IBS affects the way the gut or bowel works and is a common condition that affects women more than men. According to digestive charity Guts UK, IBS affects approximately one in 20 people in the UK or 3.2 million people. Although symptoms vary, IBS can have the potential to affect work life, leading to embarrassment, anxiety, affecting performance and contributing to low self-worth.
Stomach pain or cramps, bloating and gas, diarrhoea, constipation, tiredness, mucus in stool, backache and increased urination are common IBS symptoms. Stress, including workplace stress, often exacerbates IBS symptoms. NHS gastroenterologist Dr. Philip Hendy highlights that stress often worsens IBS leading to a vicious cycle of worsening stress and ill health that impacts all areas of life. If someone is experiencing a lot of pressure at work, IBS symptoms may deteriorate further.
Embarrassment is possibly the most common thing associated with IBS at work. Frequent trips to the toilet and having to leave important meetings can cause embarrassment leading to anxiety and shame that exacerbates symptoms. Some people may find it challenging to discuss personal issues with managers. Anxiety around having an attack while at work, particularly if toilet facilities are not as private as one would like, is another common concern.
As one of the symptoms of IBS is tiredness, it could lead to a lack of energy that affects performance at work or arriving on time. IBS symptoms can cause distraction, discomfort and low mood that could affect productivity and self-worth. There is still some stigma around IBS that might make it more difficult to talk about. However, the symptoms can be well-managed, and long periods of remission possible. Speak to a doctor who will be able to assess and recommend individual treatment plans or referrals to specialists if needed.
In conclusion, IBS is a common condition that affects millions of people in the UK, and symptoms may impact work life. Understanding IBS symptoms, their triggers, seeking medical help and effective management strategies can help to maintain work-life balance and overall wellbeing. It’s essential to create a supportive workplace culture and dialogue around IBS and other health-related conditions to foster empathy, understanding and effective problem-solving.
As April comes to a close, let us continue to raise awareness about Irritable Bowel Syndrome. As we’ve learned throughout the month, IBS can be a challenging and often misunderstood condition, but by educating ourselves and supporting those who suffer from it, we can make a positive impact on their health and wellbeing. Remember to prioritize your own health as well – it’s never too late to start making changes and implementing healthy habits. Let’s continue to prioritize our physical and mental wellbeing, not just this month, but every day.
