Gilbride Pharmacy: Understanding and Managing IBS
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder causing abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea. Symptoms vary and can be triggered by stress or diet. While lifelong, many see improvement with management.
IBS: Causes, Diagnosis, and Pharmacy Support
IBS is linked to increased gut sensitivity and impaired digestion, with psychological factors like stress contributing. Diagnosis typically relies on symptom evaluation: persistent abdominal discomfort, bloating, or altered bowel habits for six months. Blood tests (e.g., for coeliac disease) or stool tests (e.g., for calprotectin to rule out IBD) may be used to exclude other conditions.
At Gilbride Pharmacy, we offer food intolerance tests for adults and children to help identify specific dietary triggers.
Effective Treatments Available at Gilbride Pharmacy
Gilbride Pharmacy provides a comprehensive range of options to manage IBS symptoms, including OTC and prescription-strength medications.
Antispasmodics: These relax digestive muscles to ease cramping and bloating (e.g., mebeverine, alverine citrate, peppermint oil). We stock a range, including prescription-strength hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan) at reasonable prices.
Laxatives: For IBS-related constipation, bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., ispaghula husk) soften stools. Adequate fluid intake is essential.
Antimotility Medicines: These slow bowel contractions for diarrhoea (e.g., loperamide).
Prevention & Lifestyle Guidance from Your Pharmacy
Managing IBS involves dietary and lifestyle changes:
Diet: Keep a food diary to identify triggers. Soluble fibre helps constipation; reduce insoluble fibre for diarrhoea. Eat regular meals, avoid caffeine/alcohol, reduce resistant starch, stay hydrated. Probiotics may also help.
Stress Management: Techniques like meditation, exercise, and therapy are crucial. Pharmacists can discuss stress management options and refer for further support if needed.
Your Partner in Digestive Health: Visit Gilbride Pharmacy
At Gilbride Pharmacy, our team provides expert advice, a wide selection of over-the-counter products, and access to prescription-strength medications like Buscopan at competitive prices. We also offer food intolerance tests for adults and children.
Visit your local Gilbride Pharmacy to discuss your IBS symptoms and find suitable solutions. We are committed to your health and well-being.