Can IBS Cause Nausea? Understanding the Link and Finding Relief

Understanding the Link Between IBS and Nausea

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the large intestine. It causes symptoms like abdominal cramping, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Many people with IBS also deal with debilitating nausea. But what's the connection? Can IBS actually directly lead to feelings of nausea?

The Role of Brain-Gut Interactions in IBS Nausea

Research shows there is a definite link between IBS and nausea symptoms. This is because of something called the "brain-gut axis." This describes the intricate communication system between your central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord) and your enteric nervous system (the nervous system of your gastrointestinal tract).

When you have IBS, these communication pathways become disrupted. As a result, even mild abdominal discomfort can get exaggerated and cause more severe digestive issues. These IBS flare ups can trigger the area of the brain responsible for nausea and vomiting. So while IBS doesn't directly impact the stomach, the intestinal distress sends signals to the brain that lead to nausea.

How Anxiety Plays a Role in IBS Nausea

There is also a psychological component to why those with IBS often feel nauseous. Individuals living with IBS tend to have higher anxiety levels. The gastrointestinal system contains many serotonin receptors, which are neurotransmitters that help regulate anxiety levels. When serotonin signaling gets disrupted from chronic stress or anxiety, it causes problems in bowel function typical of IBS.

Higher anxiety levels also turn up the volume on nausea signals being sent from the gut to the brain. The result is more frequent and severe sensations of needing to vomit. So if you have anxiety along with your IBS, you may be more prone to struggling with accompanying nausea symptoms.

Food Sensitivities Can Trigger Nausea with IBS

Certain foods are common triggers for IBS flare ups and nausea. Food sensitivities produce inflammatory reactions in the digestive tract of those with IBS, resulting in many unpleasant symptoms. Some of the most likely food culprits are:

• FODMAPs (certain carbs not properly digested)
• Gluten
• Dairy
• Fatty foods
• Gas-producing foods like beans, onions, cabbage

When you eat something your body has difficulty processing, it can cause rapid GI distress. This stresses the intestinal tract and disrupts normal motility. Signals then get sent to the brain triggering nausea. Keeping an IBS food journal is helpful for identifying exactly which foods lead to flare ups and accompanying nausea for you personally.

Lifestyle Changes to Control IBS Nausea

Managing frequent nausea from IBS involves making certain healthy lifestyle changes. Be sure to:

Follow an IBS-Friendly Diet

Eliminating trigger foods through an elimination diet is key. Slowly reintroduce foods one at a time while documenting symptoms. Stick to gut-friendly foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts and seeds. Stay hydrated by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of fluids daily.

Manage Stress Levels

Consider adopting relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing and guided imagery. Engage in hobbies you enjoy and carve out time for proper sleep and self-care. Seeking counseling for anxiety may also be beneficial.

Stay Active

Get regular cardio and strength training exercise for at least 30 minutes daily. This helps with digestion and keeps stress hormone levels in check.

Making dietary modifications and reducing stress can greatly improve IBS management and minimize nausea symptoms occurring as a result.

Using Medications Appropriately to Lessen Nausea with IBS

Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications can provide relief when lifestyle adjustments aren't enough for controlling IBS issues. These include:

Fiber Supplements

Psyllium supplements add bulk to stool promoting regularity and soothe intestinal inflammation. Start with a small dose and increase slowly allowing your body to adjust.

Probiotics

These healthy gut bacteria crowds out yeast and bad bacteria partly responsible for IBS and rebalances digestion. Look for broad spectrum blends with at least 10 billion CFUs.

Anti-Diarrheals

For IBS-D, over-the-counter anti-diarrheal agents like loperamide (Imodium) are extremely helpful for slowing rapid transit time allowing greater nutrient absorption.

Antispasmodics

These Rx medications like dicyclomine (Bentyl) relax contracted intestinal muscles easing cramping thus minimizing nausea triggers.

Tricyclic Antidepressants

These unique antidepressants directly act on pain neurotransmitters in the gut. By easing GI discomfort, secondary nausea is also reduced. They also help with underlying anxiety.

Discuss adding one or more of these options with your doctor if making the above lifestyle changes still doesn't eliminate troublesome nausea with ongoing IBS issues.

Seek Emergency Care for Severe, Persistent Nausea

Most cases of nausea from IBS will resolve using the above management tips. However, if you experience any of the below, seek prompt medical treatment:

• Fever over 101 F
• Bloody or black stools
• Repeated vomiting
• Severe pain
• Dehydration
• Inability to keep food or fluids down for over 2 days

These may indicate another more serious underlying health condition requiring further evaluation beyond general IBS nausea. When problematic symptoms become extreme, don't hesitate to call your doctor right away or head to urgent care or the ER if after hours.

IBS certainly takes a toll and can make you miserable with symptoms like abdominal pain, bowel changes and nausea. But gaining control is possible through relief strategies like dietary changes, stress management, exercise, targeted medications and seeking emergency care if things progress to an extreme level. Work closely with your healthcare provider to find your perfect protocol for managing nausea stemming from IBS issues.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.