IBS symptoms that have nothing to do with your bowels - including backache

24 January 2024 , 11:22

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Backache is a symptoms of IBS - which effects one in five adults in the UK (stock photo) (Image: Getty)

Around one in five adults in the UK are thought to have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) - but not all symptoms of the condition are well known.

IBS is a common disorder of the digestive system, and often presents itself with stomach pain or cramps. These usually become worse after eating but can be relieved after going to the toilet. Other common symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation.

Those with IBS may experience better days, where their symptoms go unnoticed - but certain food and drink may trigger 'flare-ups' where the uncomfortable side effects worsen. According to healthcare provider Bupa, women are more likely than men to have IBS, which often starts in your 20s or 30s. However, the condition can also affect young children, who struggle to accurately describe their symptoms and therefore commonly miss out on a diagnosis.

Whilst no single cause of IBS has been identified, Bupa says it can be triggered by an infection of the stomach or bowels, certain medication such as antibiotics, and a sign of other more serious conditions. But it doesn't just affect the bowels.

The NHS states those suffering with IBS may also experience flatulence and 'passing mucus from your bottom'. The condition can also cause the following:

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• Tiredness and a lack of energy
• Feeling sick
• Backache
• Problems with peeing
• Bowel incontinence

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Several studies have linked IBS with headaches and 'migraine attacks'. While the NHS does not list this as an official symptom - Bupa does. The Association of Migraine Disorders explains that IBS and migraines have a 'bidirectional relationship' - meaning those suffering with migraines are more likely to have an increased risk of developing IBS, and vice versa.

It's important to stress that this doesn't mean IBS is causing migraines - or that migraines are causing IBS. One study found that those with migraines are 4.13 times more likely to have IBS than those without migraines - while another argued those with IBS faced a 60 per cent higher risk to have a migraine compared to those without IBS. Again, this doesn't mean having IBS will cause a person to also get migraines.

If you have been dealing with symptoms for several weeks, you should contact your GP - as they may be able to help alleviate your symptoms. You can find out more about IBS here.

Liam Gilliver