5 IBS-C Triggers That Aren’t Food

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are affected by diet, but also by many other factors, including stress, hormones, sleep, medications, and changes in routine. Knowing about these IBS triggers may help avoid or manage the symptoms of this disorder of gut-brain interaction.

1. Stress

The brain and the gut are constantly communicating. In irritable bowel syndrome, this two-way communication can be a negative feedback loop. The circular nature of the gut-brain connection is why emotional stress affects both the brain and the gut.

All types of stress, both positive and negative, can affect the gut by causing symptoms of IBS-C, such as abdominal pain and constipation. When stress causes an uptick in IBS symptoms, interrupting that negative feedback loop can help. Treatments include:

2. Lack of Sleep

Sleep is important to all aspects of health. In IBS-C, poor sleep can worsen symptoms, and symptoms can also disrupt sleep. For instance, abdominal pain and the stress of living with IBS-C can both negatively affect sleep.

People with IBS may be more likely to have a sleep disorder, so it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to get diagnosed or rule it out. Some tips to get better sleep include:

• Get physical activity daily
• Keep the bedroom dark at night
• Limit napping
• Limit caffeine intake

3. Hormonal Changes

Hormone levels increase and decrease during the menstrual cycle. Fluctuating hormones (estrogen and progesterone) affect the gut function and even how pain is experienced. Women with IBS report their symptoms are worse during their period, when hormone levels are lowest.

Several studies show this association between the menstrual cycle and IBS symptoms. The incidence of IBS in women decreases after menopause, which is another clue to how hormones affect gut health.

In general, women with IBS don’t have more or fewer hormones than women who don’t live with the condition. However, women with IBS may be more likely to have polycystic ovary syndrome. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to rule out any hormone imbalances.

4. Certain Medications

For people living with IBS-C, taking a medication that causes constipation could lead to more or worsening symptoms. Some common medications that can cause constipation include:

Medication side effects vary, and each person responds differently. Other drugs may cause constipation, even those that are over-the-counter. When starting a new medication, it’s important to talk about constipation with the prescriber to avoid any medications that may worsen symptoms of IBS-C.

5. Changes in Routine

A consistent schedule is important for managing a chronic illness like IBS-C. Travel, a variable work schedule, or major life events can alter the schedule and may precipitate symptoms.

People with IBS tend to miss out on activities like travel because of symptoms. Worrying about bathroom access or about severe symptoms cropping up causes people with IBS to avoid leisure activities. It may be more difficult to drink enough water or eat on a regular schedule during travel.

Shift work might also contribute to IBS symptoms. For instance, nurses have a higher rate of IBS than the general population (35% vs 15%).

Keeping as close to a consistent schedule helps some people avoid IBS symptoms. Sticking to a schedule may involve arranging travel to prevent sleep disruption or ensuring access to a private bathroom at the destination.