DR KEVIN BARRETT

IBS is a diagnosis that covers a broad range of symptoms and conditions, and should not be used as a term in isolation.

IBS symptoms overlap with those of other conditions, including colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and microscopic colitis.

There is a link between the nerves in the gut and those in the brain. “A gut feeling” explains the sensations that occur in stressful situations.

These temporary symptoms give some insight into the day-to-day struggle that IBS can have on sufferers.

The psychological impact of IBS is often underestimated but strategies to improve mental wellbeing are not followed often enough.

GPs follow NICE guidelines to investigate patients presenting with persistent lower abdominal symptoms.

Testing for anaemia, inflammation and coeliac disease forms the initial part of this pathway.

There are still conditions where IBS may not be the correct answer and GPs should be aware of patients whose symptoms do not respond to treatments, or whose symptoms change. They should be reassessed and may need a referral.

The role of the GP should be to provide a personalised approach to each patient, taking into account their symptoms and lifestyle, and providing guidance and support to tackle it in a holistic manner.

Dietary advice, medication, physical activity and psychological support are all important but providing all of this in a 10-minute consultation is difficult.