IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits. Get medical advice from AHPRA-registered practitioners online within minutes, available 24/7 across Australia.

When to consult a doctor for IBS ?

If symptoms are persistent or recurrent

See a doctor if abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits persist for several weeks or worsen over time, as this may require diagnosis and management.

If concerning symptoms appear

Consult a doctor if you experience unexplained weight loss, severe constipation or diarrhoea, fever, or vomiting, as these could indicate complications or another underlying condition.

If there is a family history or sudden change in symptoms

Seek medical advice if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other digestive disorders, or if your symptom patterns change suddenly.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Causes

The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

Gut motility issues: Abnormalities in how the muscles of the intestines contract and relax can lead to diarrhoea or constipation, common symptoms of IBS.

Gut sensitivity: People with IBS often have heightened sensitivity in their digestive system.

Stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can trigger or worsen IBS symptoms. The gut and brain are closely connected, and stress can influence gut function.

Gut microbiome imbalance: An imbalance in the bacteria in the intestines may contribute to IBS symptoms, leading to bloating, gas, and discomfort.

Dietary factors: Certain foods, like fatty foods, dairy, and high-FODMAP foods, can trigger IBS symptoms in some individuals.

Family history: IBS can run in families, suggesting a genetic component.

Symptoms

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can vary widely among individuals, but common signs include:

Abdominal pain: This is the most common symptom, often relieved by bowel movements.

Bloating and gas: Many people with IBS experience a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen, along with excessive gas.

Diarrhoea: Frequent, urgent bowel movements with loose or watery stools.

Constipation: Difficulty passing stools, infrequent bowel movements, or hard, dry stools.

Alternating diarrhoea and constipation: Some people experience both diarrhoea and constipation.

Mucus in stool: A small amount of mucus may be present in the stool, which is often noticed in IBS.

Fatigue and sleep disturbances: Many individuals with IBS report feeling fatigued or having trouble sleeping due to discomfort or pain.

When to seek emergency care

Call 000 or attend your nearest Emergency Department immediately if you or someone else experiences:

Severe, sudden, or worsening abdominal pain — particularly if unlike typical IBS pain or accompanied by rigidity
Significant blood in stool — bright red blood or black, tarry stools
High fever with abdominal pain — may indicate serious infection or bowel perforation
Signs of bowel obstruction — inability to pass stool or gas, severe bloating, vomiting
Rapid unexplained weight loss with worsening symptoms — requires urgent in-person investigation

Do not book a telehealth consultation for these presentations.

A Hola Health telehealth consultation for IBS is appropriate for symptom management, dietary and lifestyle advice, referrals for investigation, and monitoring of known IBS. If you are unsure whether your symptoms require emergency care, call 000 — it is always safer to seek immediate help than to delay.

Home remedies

Here are some home remedies that may help manage IBS symptoms. It is recommended to speak to a doctor beforehand:

Probiotics: Probiotics, especially those containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, can help balance gut bacteria and improve symptoms like bloating and diarrhoea.

Dietary changes: A low-FODMAP diet, which limits fermentable carbohydrates that can cause digestive distress, has been shown to reduce IBS symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation. A low-FODMAP diet is best implemented with guidance from a dietitian to ensure it is nutritionally adequate.

Peppermint tea: Peppermint has natural antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles of the digestive tract and relieve pain.

Ginger: Ginger can help reduce nausea, bloating, and discomfort. It can be consumed in tea or as a supplement.

Soluble fibre: Adding soluble fibre, found in foods like oats, psyllium, and apples, can help regulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps keep the digestive system functioning smoothly and can alleviate constipation symptoms.

Stress management: Since stress can trigger or worsen IBS, practising relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can help manage stress and reduce symptoms.

Chamomile tea: Chamomile has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm the digestive system and reduce IBS-related discomfort.

Regular exercise: Physical activity can help regulate bowel movements, reduce stress, and improve overall gut health.

Hola Health provides a convenient way to consult an AHPRA-registered doctor online, 24/7 across Australia.

Clinical note: A telehealth assessment can help evaluate IBS symptoms, provide dietary and lifestyle advice, arrange pathology or imaging referrals if clinically indicated, and prescribe medications if appropriate. Telehealth is a complementary service — a physical abdominal examination is required to exclude other gastrointestinal conditions; IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion that may require investigations including blood tests, stool testing, or colonoscopy in some patients. Blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, or significant change in bowel habit should be investigated in person promptly, as these may indicate a condition other than IBS. Consultations are secure, encrypted, and Australian-stored in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles. If you experience severe, sudden abdominal pain, significant rectal bleeding, or signs of bowel obstruction, call 000 or attend an Emergency Department immediately. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.