IBS-related diarrhea (IBS-D) is a form of irritable bowel syndrome that involves recurring abdominal pain and frequent, loose bowel movements. Triggers for IBS-D include stress, hormonal fluctuations, infections, certain medications, and specific foods like spicy dishes.
IBS affects 10–20% of the American population, with about one-third experiencing the IBS-D subtype. This condition leads to discomfort and unpredictability, interfering with work efficiency, social interactions, and overall quality of life.
Table of contents:
- IBS Diarrhea Symptoms
- IBS Diarrhea Treatment
- Management of IBS Diarrhea
- Medicine & Natural Relief
- Q & A
IBS Diarrhea Symptoms
IBS-D symptoms include:
- Watery or loose diarrhea: Watery stools that lack a defined form occur multiple times daily.
- Urgency to defecate: A sudden, intense urge to use the restroom, with hardly any warning.
- Gas and bloating: Excessive gas and a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
- Abdominal pain and cramping: Discomfort or sharp pains, often relieved after a bowel movement.
IBS Diarrhea Treatment
IBS-D treatment includes a combination of medications and lifestyle adjustments. Medical options include anti-diarrheal medications that slow bowel movements, while a doctor may prescribe antidepressants and other prescription drugs to target specific symptoms. Lifestyle changes include dietary adjustments such as decreasing fiber intake, eating smaller meals, and avoiding trigger foods. The low FODMAP diet is another approach that can offer relief. Stress management is equally important, and yoga and meditation are just two examples of the many stress-reducing methods. While these treatments can be beneficial, it is crucial to seek medical advice if symptoms include bloody stools, severe pain or weight loss.
Management of IBS Diarrhea
IBS-D management includes daily strategies like keeping a food diary to track down personal trigger foods. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich beverages is crucial, as frequent diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Additional measures may be necessary during IBS-D flare-ups, such as planning the day carefully, mapping out restroom locations, and eating bland, low-fiber foods like bananas and rice. Having a simple and accessible stress technique can also help ease symptoms. Listening to calming music through earbuds or taking a few slow, deep breaths are just a few examples.
Medicine & Natural Relief
Over-the-counter medications for IBS-D include:
- Loperamide (Imodium): An anti-diarrheal medication that slows bowel movements, providing temporary relief from diarrhea.
Prescription medications for IBS-D include:
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA): TCAs, such as Elavil, help reduce pain and slow bowel movements.
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI): SSRIs reduce pain and diarrhea and tend to have fewer side effects than TCAs. However, they are less effective for severe cases.
- Rifaximin (Xifaxan): An antibiotic that decreases bacterial overgrowth and reduces diarrhea.
Natural relief options:
- Evinature’s IBS Bundle which combines Exhale and DivertX – some of our most powerful nutraceuticals – for optimal results.
- Peppermint Oil Supplements: Peppermint oil can relieve abdominal cramping.
- Cura: This supplement contains curcumin (turmeric), an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant shown in studies to improve symptoms and enhance the quality of life for IBS patients.
- Exhale: This supplement combines chamomile, a traditional antidepressant, with mimosa and ashwagandha, which have demonstrated anti-anxiety effects in studies.
Q & A
What are the symptoms of IBS with diarrhea?
Frequent bowel movements, abdominal pain or cramping, bloating, and gas.
How long can diarrhea last with IBS?
Diarrhea episodes can last hours to days, often triggered by stress or certain foods.
What is the treatment for IBS with diarrhea?
Treatment includes dietary changes, over-the-counter medications like loperamide, prescription drugs such as TCAs or SSRIs, and stress management.
How to help IBS diarrhea?
Avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, stay hydrated, and consider natural supplements.
Can IBS cause blood in stool?
No, blood in stool is not a symptom of IBS and may indicate another condition that needs medical evaluation.
Is there IBS without diarrhea? Does it have a different treatment?
Yes, IBS with constipation (IBS-C) has a different treatment, focusing on fiber, laxatives, and medications to promote bowel movements.
Eliana Oberman
