Key considerations when travelling with IBS
Holidays are something many of us look forward to all year. Whether you’re heading abroad for some sunshine or planning a staycation closer to home, a change of scenery should be a chance to relax and unwind. If you live with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), though, travelling can sometimes bring a few challenges.
Changes to your routine, different foods, long journeys, and even the excitement of going away, can all affect your digestive system. For women going through perimenopause or menopause, hormonal changes may make symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort feel even more noticeable.
If you’re worried about traveling with IBS, below we’ll explore why problems can occur and how you can prevent or manage them.
Why travel can trigger IBS symptoms
IBS affects everyone differently, but many people find that changes to their normal routine can upset the balance of their digestive system. Travelling often means eating at different times, trying unfamiliar foods, spending long periods sitting down, or coping with the stress of airports and delayed journeys. Even positive excitement can have an impact on the gut.
You may notice symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation becoming more frequent while you’re away. Dehydration, which is more common during hot weather or long flights, can also make bowel symptoms worse.
For women going through perimenopause or menopause, IBS symptoms often worsen. Many women find (and research has shown) that hormone therapy (HRT) can positively impact your gut microbiome, which in turn may help improve symptoms. If you would like to discuss your options, or if you’d like a treatment review, our team of menopause specialists are here to help guide you.
Preparing ahead of your trip
A little preparation before you travel can often make a big difference once your holiday begins. If you know certain foods trigger your symptoms, it may help to plan ahead by checking restaurant menus online in advance, or packing suitable snacks for longer trips.
There is a Flush Toilet Finder App, which can help with finding local public toilets if needed.
Staying hydrated is equally important, particularly if you’re travelling somewhere warm. Drinking bottled water regularly throughout the day and sticking to your usual diet as much as possible, especially when it comes to caffeine and alcohol-consumption, can help support normal digestion.
Guts UK offers useful guidance on IBS dietary management here – https://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/.
If you’re taking medication for IBS, make sure you have enough for your entire trip, along with a little extra in case of unexpected delays. Also, packing some diarrhoea relief medication, paracetamol and anti-reflux medication can be reassuring, even if you don’t end up needing it. Allow yourself time to adjust and to relax, rather than trying to fit too much into the first few days.
If IBS is affecting your confidence when travelling, or you’ve noticed symptoms that are new, or have changed or worsened, EssexPrivateGP is here to help. Book a consultation today and receive personalised advice to help you feel more comfortable.
