Food: Many patients identify food as a trigger for their symptoms. While there is no single diet that universally cures IBS, food often plays a role in producing symptoms, particularly in cases where bloating, discomfort, and diarrhoea are the main symptoms.
Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, diabetic medications, and cough medications, can trigger symptoms of IBS, especially if symptoms worsen after starting one of these medications.
Stress: Stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms due to its impact on the brain's ability to reduce the body's reaction to stress.
Infections: Infections that cause symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, such as stomach flu or food poisoning, may also worsen IBS symptoms.