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Romy Raves

A Lifestyle, Beauty & Fashion Blog for Women 40+

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40 Plus· 40 Plus Wellness· Health & Wellness· Lifestyle

Women’s Health: Understanding How IBS-D Can Impact Everyday Life

This post is meant to raise awareness of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) and a treatment option that sufferers can ask their doctor about.

This post is meant to raise awareness of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) and a treatment option that sufferers can ask their doctor about.

This is a sponsored post. Salix Pharmaceuticals compensated me for this post. All opinions are my own. Certain product information has been included to meet regulations.

As many of you know, I like to approach women’s health topics candidly on Romy Raves, and lately I find myself more interested in exploring health and wellness challenges that are relevant to women. Last month, I wrote an enlightening post on Osteoporosis and today, in honor of IBS Awareness Month, I am discussing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a common intestinal disease associated with unpredictable bowel movements.

About 1 in every 10 Americans suffer from IBS, and people who have family members who suffer from IBS are more than twice as likely to develop the problem themselves. People with IBS usually have stomach (abdominal) pain at least 1 day a week, for at least 3 months, and if more than 25% of bowel movements are loose or watery and less than 25% are hard or lumpy, it could be Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D).

While doing my research for this post, I found out that approximately 40% of people with IBS have IBS-D and that it affects both men and women almost equally (which was surprising to me). The exact cause of IBS-D is unknown, but it is believed that one of the possible causes is an imbalance in the gut bacteria that may lead to IBS-D symptoms. Other possible causes of IBS-D include communication problems between the brain and the digestive system and problems with the immune system.

Living with IBS-D can take a toll on a person’s life. People with IBS-D symptoms tend to feel frustrated and embarrassed by their condition, and therefore they tend to limit situations where there isn’t a bathroom nearby. They tend to avoid social engagements, long car/plane rides and going on vacation because they fear not making it to the bathroom on time.

In preparation for writing this post, I had an honest chat with a very close girlfriend of mine who has struggled with IBS-D for many years, and I asked her what her biggest challenges were related to this condition. Aside from the on and off physical pain and discomfort, her biggest frustration about having IBS-D is loss of control of her bodily functions. In other words, she’s sometimes worried about having uncontrollable gas in public as well as not being able to make it to the bathroom on time. Honestly, I was really surprised by the high level of anxiety that she struggles with and the significant impact it has had on her life.

Given the significant impact that IBS-D can have on everyday life, I was shocked to learn that nearly two in five people with IBS-D wait more than three years before seeing a doctor about their symptoms. What?! And although there is no cure for IBS-D, there are treatments that address the symptoms, and today I would like to tell you about one of them.

XIFAXAN® is a prescription antibiotic that works mainly in the digestive tract to treat IBS-D in adults. It is the only FDA-approved treatment that alters the bacteria in your gut that have been linked to symptoms of IBS-D. XIFAXAN is a short-term treatment, taken every day for 2 weeks, and it provides up to 6 months of relief (range of 6-24 weeks; average of 10 weeks) from IBS-D symptoms. If symptoms return, you can be retreated up to two times with XIFAXAN, however it is not something that you take indefinitely.

To anyone suffering with IBS-D, I encourage you talk to your doctor about treatment options, as having an open conversation is an important step in managing your symptoms.

Xifaxan Important Safety Information:

This post is meant to raise awareness of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) and a treatment option that sufferers can ask their doctor about.

INDICATION

XIFAXAN® (rifaximin) 550 mg tablets are indicated for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

  • XIFAXAN is not for everyone. Do not take XIFAXAN if you have a known hypersensitivity to rifaximin, any of the rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any of the components in XIFAXAN.
  • If you take antibiotics, like XIFAXAN, there is a chance you could experience diarrhea caused by an overgrowth of bacteria (C. difficile). This can cause symptoms ranging in severity from mild diarrhea to life-threatening colitis. Contact your healthcare provider if your diarrhea does not improve or worsens.
  • Talk to your healthcare provider before taking XIFAXAN if you have severe hepatic (liver) impairment, as this may cause increased effects of the medicine.
  • Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking drugs called P-glycoprotein and/or OATPs inhibitors (such as cyclosporine) because using these drugs with XIFAXAN may lead to an increase in the amount of XIFAXAN absorbed by your body.
  • In clinical studies, the most common side effects of XIFAXAN in IBS-D were nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) and an increase in liver enzymes.
  • XIFAXAN may affect warfarin activity when taken together. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking warfarin because the dose of warfarin may need to be adjusted to maintain proper blood-thinning effect.
  • If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing, talk to your healthcare provider before taking XIFAXAN because XIFAXAN may cause harm to an unborn baby or nursing infant.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch/ or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

For product information, adverse event reports, and product complaint reports, please contact:

Salix Product Information Call Center

Phone: 1-800-321-4576

Fax: 1-510-595-8183

Email: salixmc@dlss.com

Please click here for full Prescribing Information

XIFI.0190.USA.19

 

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04.24.19 78 Comments

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Comments

  1. Puja says

    May 20, 2019 at 10:01 pm

    This is such great info. I have a family member suffering from this and will share the details.

    Reply
  2. Suzanne says

    May 16, 2019 at 11:21 am

    IBS can be very difficult but with the right treatment I think one can alleviate some of the symptoms. Tough thing to live with however.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 21, 2019 at 12:55 pm

      I totally agree and I love sharing a treatment that can help

      Reply
  3. Jasmine Hewitt says

    May 16, 2019 at 6:34 am

    i dont have IBS but for my friends who do, i’ll suggest they speak to their dr. its just wiser than trusting online sources. just my 2 cents!

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 21, 2019 at 12:55 pm

      I agree, your doctor knows what’s best for you

      Reply
  4. Kara says

    May 15, 2019 at 11:41 pm

    I am luckily not a sufferer but I know a few people who are so will pass on your post

    Reply
  5. Jessica may says

    May 15, 2019 at 5:54 pm

    J think my husband might have this condition, very similar. Thanks for the reccomendation!

    Reply
  6. Catherine says

    May 15, 2019 at 8:46 am

    More people suffer from this than we might think. Great article for those managing IBS.

    Reply
  7. Amy says

    May 15, 2019 at 4:08 am

    I never knew about IBS until I read this. Glad that your raising an awareness and sharing about this.

    Reply
  8. Rosey says

    May 15, 2019 at 3:43 am

    It is definitely important to talk to a healthcare professional first. Better safe than sorry if you’re taking anything. My friend has IBS and she does okay but it def doesn’t make her happy.

    Reply
  9. Lisa says

    May 15, 2019 at 12:53 am

    I too have a friend who suffers from IBS so I’m sure they can relate to this post. I don’t know whether this is available where she is, but I’ll gladly share it with her. Thank you for an informative post.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 21, 2019 at 12:56 pm

      Make sure she speaks to her doctor

      Reply
  10. Yeah Lifestyle says

    May 14, 2019 at 1:01 pm

    I have friends who suffer from this. Thank you for discussing this, I will be sure to mention that antibiotic to them

    Reply
  11. twinspirationalparties says

    May 14, 2019 at 5:56 am

    That must be so tough.. Thank you for sharing some advice and information about IBS. It was really an interesting topic.

    Reply
  12. Norafiqin says

    May 14, 2019 at 5:52 am

    I suffer from diarrhoea quite often but never know what causes it. While I don’t think I have ibs, it’s still good to be informed. Thank you for this.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 21, 2019 at 12:58 pm

      I hope my post made you think about discussing this with your doctor

      Reply
  13. Cristina Petrini says

    May 14, 2019 at 2:15 am

    I did not know this disorder also because I do not know anyone who suffers from it, but precisely for this reason talking about it and informing it is important.

    Reply
  14. Tamara says

    May 13, 2019 at 8:25 pm

    Wow, really good to know what works.

    Reply
  15. natalie says

    April 30, 2019 at 2:10 am

    My Sister struggles with terrible IBS. It is so important to raise awareness. Great post

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:10 am

      I’m so happy to help!

      Reply
  16. Kiwi says

    April 26, 2019 at 10:15 am

    Thanks for sharing the importance of IBS. I know many people are embarrassed of it but a lot of people do have this issue.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:11 am

      It can be a struggle but there are things that can help

      Reply
  17. Kalyan Panja says

    April 26, 2019 at 7:42 am

    Thanks for sharing your nice review of this antibiotic. It will be helpful to many.

    Reply
  18. Natural Beauty And Makeup says

    April 26, 2019 at 7:29 am

    This is such an informative post! My dad suffers from IBS and I know how much pain he goes through every day 😑 I’ve also learned a lot of things about IBS-D from this post.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 30, 2019 at 9:05 am

      So glad that you found it informative!

      Reply
  19. Jasmine Hewitt says

    April 25, 2019 at 7:25 pm

    I have a friend with this and its awful. thanks for such a great informational post to spread awareness

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:12 am

      I love sharing information that can help

      Reply
  20. Jenny MacKenzie says

    April 25, 2019 at 5:09 pm

    Yikes! This seems rough. Gives new meaning to “Tummy troubles!” Thanks for sharing. I know it will help so many!

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:14 am

      Yes I agree! People shouldn’t have to suffer when there are things that can help

      Reply
  21. Emman Damian says

    April 25, 2019 at 4:03 pm

    Wow! This is a very informative post! I really appreciate it since I’m a pharmacist.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 4:35 pm

      Thanks so much for taking the time to let me know. Come back anytime, I love raising awareness about women’s health issues.

      Reply
  22. Eileen M Loya says

    April 25, 2019 at 2:17 pm

    IBS-D is a condition that may even have an effect psychologically. People who suffer from this illness would rather stay at home than to risk being embarrassed in public. I am glad that there is help for them. I will share this information if I do know of a friend or family member who is suffering from IBS-D.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:15 am

      Please do! Being informed really helps

      Reply
  23. keikilani says

    April 25, 2019 at 2:12 pm

    My roommate suffered through terrible IBS in college. I am totally forwarding her this email. Hopefully it helps.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:44 pm

      Thank you so much for sharing!

      Reply
  24. Brianne Manz says

    April 25, 2019 at 12:08 pm

    I know a few people that suffer from IBS, it is honestly more common than you think. It is good that that people like yourself write about these times of subjects.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:39 pm

      Yes me too! That’s exactly why I wrote this post

      Reply
  25. Ruth I says

    April 25, 2019 at 11:06 am

    Ahh, sounds tough. Thank you for all of these information. I wasn’t really aware about this.

    Reply
  26. Irina says

    April 25, 2019 at 10:55 am

    Thank you for sharing. I really value your input and advice dear. Your so inspiring.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:39 pm

      Awww thanks, it’s my pleasure!

      Reply
  27. Annemarie LeBlanc says

    April 25, 2019 at 10:52 am

    I am glad that there is something sufferers of IBS-D can take for relief of their symptoms. Although this does not provide long term relief, it is still good to take to prevent any embarrassing scenario that may arise.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:16 am

      Me too! I love sharing things that can help women feel healthier

      Reply
  28. Cindy Gordon says

    April 25, 2019 at 10:23 am

    I have a friend who actually has both C and D. It can really turn good days into nightmares.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:40 pm

      Yes it can be hard to manage at times

      Reply
  29. Catherine says

    April 25, 2019 at 9:50 am

    Great info for those struggling with this issue. I’m sure it will help a lot of people out!

    Reply
  30. Sherry says

    April 25, 2019 at 8:17 am

    I know a couple of people and IBS. I’m glad there is something out there that can help them.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:41 pm

      Yes me too!

      Reply
  31. Rachel says

    April 25, 2019 at 7:28 am

    I have a lot of people in my life that deal with IBS. I think based on what they tell me it is definitely the D version.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:42 pm

      So many people struggle with it

      Reply
  32. Krista says

    April 25, 2019 at 7:01 am

    Super important read for so many of us that have no clue about this! Thanks for sharing and the education.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:17 am

      Glad to share useful information

      Reply
  33. Jennifer says

    April 25, 2019 at 5:33 am

    I cannot imagine having to live with this disease. Thanks for sharing this very helpful information.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:17 am

      Yes, unfortunately many people struggle with it

      Reply
  34. Snehal says

    April 25, 2019 at 5:11 am

    For a really long time, my friend’s mom is suffering from IBS. I will suggest that she checks out XIFAXAN. 🙂

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:18 am

      Make sure she discusses it with her doctor

      Reply
  35. Toni | Boulder Locavore says

    April 25, 2019 at 4:36 am

    Thank you so much for this! It is really helpful if you know more about this condition.

    Reply
  36. Catalina says

    April 25, 2019 at 1:31 am

    Thanks for all these helpful tips. It’s very important to know all these things to stay healthy!

    Reply
  37. Subhashish Roy says

    April 24, 2019 at 11:32 pm

    I see quite a few people having this problem of lately. It was good to go through and learn.

    Reply
  38. Stefani Tolson says

    April 24, 2019 at 10:57 pm

    I am glad they have treatment options to help.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:19 am

      Me too & happy to share one of them

      Reply
  39. GiGi Eats says

    April 24, 2019 at 8:58 pm

    I’m raising my hand. I have IBD-C. It’s just – LOVELY. Ha! THANKFULLY for the most part I have it under control, but there are moments where I just want to curl up in a ball, that’s for sure!

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:20 am

      So sorry to hear that you are suffering with this but glad you have found things that help

      Reply
  40. Cinny says

    April 24, 2019 at 7:48 pm

    That can certainly be disruptive on a person’s lifestyle. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  41. Kathy says

    April 24, 2019 at 6:49 pm

    I don’t suffer from this, but I do know a few people who do. This has got a lot of great information. I’ll have to share this with them. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  42. Christine Weis says

    April 24, 2019 at 6:21 pm

    I have had IBS years ago due to stress. I didn’t take anything prescribed but I wish I knew about this. Thank you for bringing awareness to people who suffer with IBS. It’s difficult for some to talk about or get the right help for.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:57 pm

      Thank you for your candor and I am glad to raise awareness about a treatment that helps

      Reply
  43. Amy Desrosiers says

    April 24, 2019 at 5:51 pm

    I have always thought my husband had IBS. I really am not sure if he does or doesn’t but it seems like he is always on the toilet.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:47 pm

      He should definitely discuss his condition with his doctor.

      Reply
  44. Marcie W. says

    April 24, 2019 at 3:55 pm

    I’m lactose intolerant and know all about bowel issues, but I could not imagine having to deal with it all the time, as IBS sufferers do. How wonderful that there’s treatment available.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:48 pm

      You are lucky that you know the cause of it

      Reply
  45. Jamie says

    April 24, 2019 at 3:35 pm

    Thank you so much for bringing awareness to this. I totally didn’t even know there was such a thing as IBS-D. So many more people than we think probably are suffering from this. Such a great post!

    Reply
    • Romy says

      April 25, 2019 at 3:49 pm

      Thanks so much, it is my pleasure to raise awareness about IBS-D

      Reply
  46. Jamie says

    April 24, 2019 at 3:33 pm

    This is so eye opening. I didn’t even know that there was such a thing as IBS-D. So many people probably are suffering and not even realizing it. Thank you for bringing awareness to this topic!

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:21 am

      My pleasure, it’s why I love blogging!

      Reply
  47. Brandy says

    April 24, 2019 at 3:03 pm

    Wow, I have learned more about this more than I ever knew before. I am glad that you’re helping to spread awareness.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:21 am

      So glad my blog is educational

      Reply
  48. Colleen says

    April 24, 2019 at 1:47 pm

    Oh, gosh. I have a friend with this, and it gives her such a terrible time. Thank you for sharing this. it’s going to help a lot of people.

    Reply
    • Romy says

      May 13, 2019 at 11:22 am

      Yes me too, glad to help!

      Reply

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