IBS and Headaches: Understanding the Connection

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), also called mucous colitis or spastic colon, is an intestinal disorder. For many, it is often accompanied by headaches and other functional disorders. Some medications prescribed for this have headache as a possible side effect. Many with IBS get headaches when involved in strenuous activities.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome is when the stool moves either too slow or too fast through the intestines. Cramp-like pain or instant diarrhea onset results from this.

Causes

• Stress, depression and anxiety are all possible causes for IBS. Interestingly, headaches are also triggered by these factors, even in those who are not suffering from IBS.

Headaches

• Headaches are a symptom of IBS, but are also brought on by the same factors that are contributors to IBS. Medications taken for IBS sometimes result in headaches.

Lifestyle Changes

• Stress reduction is necessary for those with IBS. Careful attention to diet can also help. Extra rest and exercise relieve symptoms.

Medicines

• You may be able to reduce the headaches by taking ibuprofen. Doctors prescribe antispasmodic medicines and may even prescribe a pain killer for relief of IBS symptoms.