If you have ever experienced frequent swelling, unexpected abdominal cramps, or sudden matches of diarrhea and constipation, you can brush it as stress or something. But what if it is more than that? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most wrong gut disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. This does not cause permanent loss, but it can greatly disrupt daily life. And the worst part? There are many myths around it that people often do not know what is actually going on in their body.

Dr. Imran Sheikh, Advisor GI, HPB Surgeon, and Walkhart Hospitals describe GI oncourse at Mumbai Central, Complications of IBS and common misunderstandings that surround it.

IBS is not just about stress

One of the most common misconceptions about IBS is that it is purely related to stress. While stress can certainly trigger or worsen symptoms, this is not the only reason. Dr. “The intestine and brain are connected to the depth, which is why the emotional stress can affect the function of the intestine,” says Sheikh. “However, we look at many cases of IBS in those who live relatively stress-free life. It tells us that the management of stress alone will not eliminate IBS.”

Is inflammation to be convicted?

Another comprehensive belief is that IBS arises from chronic inflammation, similar to conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. But this is not completely true. Unlike inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), IBS does not cause permanent damage to the intestines. “Although mild inflammation may occur, IBS exceeds a functional disorder than an inflammatory,” Dr. Sheikh says. “This means that the intestine is not damaged, but it is not working as it should be.”

Food intolerance vs. IBS: What is the difference?

Many people accidentally believe that IBS food is a serious form of intolerance. While certain foods can trigger symptoms, IBS is not the same as food allergies or intolerance. Dr. “Dairy, gluten, spicy foods and artificial sweetness can increase symptoms,” says Sheikh. “But the problem is not food itself; it is how the intestine processes these foods. Avoiding trigger foods can help help, but this does not mean that the person is allergic to them.”

What makes IBS worse?

While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, many factors can make symptoms worse:

Diet: High -fat foods, caffeine, alcohol and artificial sweeteners can disturb the intestine and spoil the symptoms.

Intestinal bacterial imbalance: “A disrupted intestinal microbiom is often seen in IBS patients,” Dr. Shares Sheikh. “Probiotics and fiber -rich foods can help regulate intestine health.”

Hormonal ups and downs: Women, especially around their menstrual cycle, often experience more severe IBS symptoms.

Lifestyle factor: poor sleep, irregular eating habits, and a sedentary lifestyle can all flare up.

Management of IBS: What exactly helps?

Dr. Sheikh shared that IBS can be managed effectively with the right approach:

Dietary changes: Low fodmap diet, which eliminates some fermented carbs that causes digestive discomfort, is highly effective for many IBS victims.

Medications: Depending on the symptoms, doctors may recommend antispasmodics, laxatives or drugs that regulate the dynamics of the intestine.

Stress management: Since stress increases symptoms, techniques such as cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) can be beneficial.

Exercise: Regular physical activity adds digestion and reduces stress, making it an essential part of IBS management.

To receive medical help: If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult a doctor – especially if there is unexplained weight loss, blood in stool, or severe pain.

IBS is not only a case of stress, swelling or sensitive to food – it is a complex disorder that requires a holistic approach. Dr. Sheikh said, “Understanding your own trigger, maintaining a balanced diet, and taking professional help can create a world of difference.” With the correct lifestyle changes, IBS victims can gain control over their digestive health and live a more comfortable life.

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