Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

What is IBS?

IBS is a long-term condition that affects the digestive system. Around 1 in 5 people experience symptoms at some point in their life, most often starting in early adulthood and more frequently in women.

IBS is sometimes described as an ‘invisible condition’ because no single test can confirm it. This can make it frustrating to live with and difficult to diagnose. While there’s currently no cure, treatments and lifestyle changes can help you manage symptoms and feel better day to day.

IBS is different from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Unlike IBD, IBS doesn’t cause inflammation or lasting gut damage, but it can significantly affect your quality of life.

What causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS isn’t fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

• Previous gut infections, such as gastroenteritis
• Imbalance of gut bacteria
• Irregular bowel muscle contractions
• Stress

IBS likely develops from a combination of these factors, rather than a single cause.

When to seek help for IBS

Many people with IBS can manage their symptoms with self-care and lifestyle changes. However, it’s important to see a doctor if:

• Your symptoms don’t improve with simple changes or are affecting your daily life
• You notice changes in your usual symptoms
• You’re concerned your symptoms could be linked to another condition

Seek urgent medical advice if you experience any of the following signs:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in your stool or black stools
• Rectal bleeding
• Persistent vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Severe abdominal pain
• A lump in your abdomen
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Fever with abdominal symptoms

At King Edward VII’s Hospital, our experienced gastroenterologists will listen carefully to your concerns, carry out any necessary investigations and create a personalised plan to help you manage your IBS with confidence.

Diagnosing IBS at King Edward VII’s Hospital

Living with IBS symptoms can feel unsettling and disruptive. Speaking with a consultant is the first step towards understanding your condition and finding the right support. At your appointment, your consultant will take time to listen to your concerns, discuss your medical history and examine your abdomen.

There isn’t a single test that confirms IBS, which is why your consultant may recommend tests to rule out other conditions. These can include:

• Stool tests
• Blood tests
• Breath tests for bacterial overgrowth
• Colonoscopy
• Endoscopy
• Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scans or MRI scans

At King Edward VII’s Hospital, you’ll have fast access to these diagnostic tests and expert interpretation from leading specialists. This ensures clear answers without unnecessary delays and a personalised plan to help you manage IBS with confidence.

Private IBS treatment at King Edward VII’s Hospital

There’s currently no cure for IBS, but there are many ways to manage the condition and reduce its impact on your daily life. Treatment is highly individual, as different approaches work for different people. 

IBS management and treatment options may include:

• Diet and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and staying active
• Stress management techniques
• Staying well hydrated
• Medication to relieve specific symptoms, like diarrhoea
• Probiotics to support gut health
• Counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

Your consultant will work closely with you to understand your symptoms and recommend the approach that suits you best.

If you’re unsure where to start, or if previous treatments haven’t brought you relief, our team of expert gastroenterologists and dietitians at King Edward VII’s Hospital are here to guide you towards a tailored plan that helps you feel more in control of your IBS.

Why choose King Edward VII’s Hospital for digestive health care?

At King Edward VII’s Hospital, we understand how much IBS and other digestive conditions can affect your daily life. When you choose our digestive health services, you’ll be supported by a team of leading gastroenterologists, dietitians and specialist nurses who are committed to helping you feel better.

You’ll benefit from:

• Consultants with specialist expertise in IBS
• Rapid access to diagnostic tests, including advanced imaging
• Personalised dietary advice and nutrition support from experienced dietitians
• Access to psychological therapies, including counselling and CBT, to help manage the impact of IBS
• Tailored treatment plans that focus on easing your symptoms and improving your quality of life

We combine clinical excellence with compassionate care, so you can feel confident that you’re in safe hands every step of the way.

Find specialist IBS support in London

You don’t have to struggle with IBS on your own. At King Edward VII’s Hospital, our expert gastroenterologists and digestive health specialists provide clear answers, personalised treatment and ongoing support.

Contact us today to arrange an appointment and take the first step towards managing your IBS with confidence.