My IBS Story at a Glance
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is more common than people realize, yet it often feels deeply personal. It’s a condition that affects the large intestine and shows up in frustrating ways, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and unpredictable bowel movements. For me, the hardest part wasn’t just the discomfort, but the confusion. Why did certain foods leave me doubled over one day and seem harmless the next?
IBS looks different for everyone. Some people deal mostly with constipation, others with diarrhea, and many swing between the two. I’ve experienced both, often accompanied by cramps that ease only after going to the restroom. On bad days, bloating makes me feel like I’ve swallowed a balloon, and fatigue follows me around no matter how much I rest. Stress, hormonal shifts, or even just the wrong meal can send everything spiraling.
Doctors don’t have one clear answer to why IBS happens, but there are patterns. The gut and brain are constantly in conversation, and when signals misfire, digestion suffers. Muscle contractions in the intestines can be too strong or too weak, leading to symptoms. Past infections, bacterial overgrowth, and food sensitivities - like dairy or processed foods - can also play a role. For me, I noticed flare-ups after stressful weeks or meals heavy in high-histamine foods.
Getting a diagnosis isn’t always straightforward. In my case, it started with endless questions about symptoms, followed by blood and stool tests to rule out conditions like celiac or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors often rely on something called the Rome IV Criteria: abdominal pain at least once a week for three months, tied to bowel changes. It sounds clinical, but it helped put a name to what I was experiencing.
Even though IBS isn’t dangerous in the way cancer or IBD can be, there are red flags worth paying attention to. Sudden weight loss, rectal bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms that appear after age 50 should always be checked by a doctor.
Living with IBS is about learning your own body. Over time, I’ve found ways to manage it: keeping a food and symptom diary, practicing mindful eating, exercising to reduce stress, and avoiding my known triggers. Some days are easier than others, but I’ve realized management is possible. It isn’t about chasing a “perfect” diet; it’s about curiosity and patience, finding the foods, routines, and habits that help me feel well.
IBS may be long-term, but it doesn’t have to define your life. By understanding it and listening to your body, you can regain control, find relief, and start enjoying food again. That’s what I continue to explore and share here - practical tips, personal insights, and small changes that make a big difference.
Author: Malda Shushku
