16, Apr 2026
April is IBS Awareness Month, designated to raise awareness of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the importance of seeking treatment.
It is estimated that up to 15% of the global population is affected by IBS, with a higher frequency observed amongst women compared to men, with the exact cause remaining unknown.
Many go undiagnosed for decades, dealing with painful, frustrating and often stigmatized symptoms. Anyone with gastrointestinal symptoms should be evaluated by their primary care physician, who can then refer them to a gastroenterologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
IBS is a condition characterized by chronic pain and discomfort during bowel movements, along with changes in bowel patterns, such as diarrhea or constipation. Additional symptoms include alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation, changes in stool texture and/or frequency, uncomfortable bloating or distention, abdominal pain or cramping, mucus in the stool, flatulence and nausea or vomiting.
Irritable bowel syndrome is often driven by emotional or mental stressors such as anxiety, depression, or stress. It is not considered a dangerous condition that could be a precursor to a more serious underlying condition, but it is important to address symptoms with your physician to rule out more serious health conditions such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, which can often be mistakenly attributed to IBS.
IBS can be treated with medications that target both abdominal pain and specific bowel disturbances. Managing emotional factors is also crucial, and therapy or medications to address these issues can be part of an effective treatment plan. There’s no cure for IBS. Treating the condition requires symptom management, including dietary and lifestyle changes.
Here are some ways to control IBS symptoms.
Limit foods that trigger IBS symptoms. These may include milk, alcohol, chocolate, carbonated beverages, certain fruits and vegetables. IBS can worsen during periods of high stress or anxiety. Proper stress management can be achieved by planning, keeping a food diary, meditating, taking time to relax and avoiding stressful situations. A high-fiber diet can facilitate regular bowel movements and help limit IBS symptoms. Certain medications, such as anticholinergic medications and anti-diarrheal medications, help alleviate IBS symptoms.
Although the physical symptoms of IBS are debilitating, the impact on mental health is quite significant. Sometimes, a simple day out with friends, or even commuting to work, can be an overwhelmingly challenging experience. Many individuals feel compelled to hide their IBS symptoms due to social stigma, fearing that the condition can be dismissed rather than viewed as a legitimate health challenge.
IBS Awareness Month is an opportunity to reflect on this often-misunderstood condition. By increasing awareness and understanding, the lives of those affected by IBS can be improved, ensuring they receive proper care and treatment.
Dr. Sue Mitra and her staff strive to offer their patients the best care, advice and services available in the medical field with the goal to keep patient healthy & happy.
Dr. Sue Mitra is board certified in international medicine. She is seen here with a Cologuard, which is a noninvasive colon cancer screening test. (Photo by: Tim Shortt/Florida Today)