What Does IBS Feel Like?

If you’ve ever found yourself clutching your stomach after a meal, wondering if what you’re feeling is just a dodgy takeaway or something more serious, you’re not alone. For those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), stomach discomfort, bloating, and unpredictable bathroom trips can feel like an everyday struggle. But what does IBS actually feel like? And how do you know if your symptoms are just a passing upset or something that needs attention?

IBS isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition – some people experience cramping and constipation, while others deal with urgent dashes to the loo. Some feel fine one minute and completely drained the next. It can also affect more than just your gut, with symptoms like fatigue, nausea, and even anxiety creeping in. For more about this subject, take a look at our article IBS and Anxiety.

Because IBS shares symptoms with other conditions, like food intolerances or inflammatory bowel disease, it’s easy to wonder: Do I really have IBS, or is it something else? If you would like to understand more how a nutritionist can help you, we offer a free 15-minute preliminary chat with an online nutritionist.

In this article, we’ll break down what IBS actually feels like – physically, emotionally, and everything in between. We’ll also look at where IBS pain is usually felt, what an IBS episode can be like, and when it’s time to seek medical advice.

IBS Pain Location Explained

IBS pain isn’t just a generic stomach ache – it has its own patterns and hotspots. Most people with IBS feel pain in the lower abdomen, often around the belly button or just below it. The discomfort can range from a dull, nagging ache to sharp, cramping pains that come and go like waves.

It might be helpful to think of it like traffic in your gut – sometimes everything moves too fast, sometimes it crawls to a stop. Gas can build up like an overinflated balloon, leaving you feeling bloated and uncomfortable. The pain can shift, too – one day, it’s on the left side, the next it’s on the right, depending on how your digestive system is behaving.

For some, IBS pain is relieved after going to the toilet, while others find it lingers no matter what. It’s unpredictable, frustrating, and often tied to food, stress, or even just the time of day.

How IBS Pain Differs From Other Digestive Issues

IBS pain is often confused with other gut-related conditions, but there are some key differences:

IBS vs. Acid Reflux or Indigestion – If your pain sits higher up, around your chest or just below the ribs, it could be acid reflux or indigestion rather than IBS. IBS pain usually stays in the lower half of your abdomen.
IBS vs. Constipation or Bloating – IBS-related bloating isn’t just about feeling full after a meal—it’s the kind that makes you feel like your stomach has turned into a tight drum, sometimes so much that your clothes feel uncomfortable.
IBS vs. Appendicitis – A sudden, severe pain in the lower right side of your abdomen? That’s not typical of IBS and could be something like appendicitis, which requires urgent medical attention.
IBS vs. Food Intolerances – Food intolerances, like lactose or gluten sensitivity, often cause bloating and discomfort, but with IBS, the pain can be more persistent and less predictable.
IBS vs. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis also cause abdominal pain, but they often come with other symptoms like blood in the stool, weight loss, and fever – things you wouldn’t expect with IBS.

In short, IBS pain is like an unpredictable storm – it can flare up suddenly, calm down just as quickly, and leave you feeling wiped out. If your pain feels unusual, severe, or comes with symptoms that aren’t typical of IBS, it’s worth speaking to a doctor to rule out other conditions. More on this later.

What Does an IBS Episode Feel Like?

An IBS episode can feel completely different from one person to the next. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others have severe cramps that leave them doubled over in pain. The symptoms can come on suddenly, last for hours, or disappear just as quickly as they arrived. Below, we’ll break down the most common sensations experienced during an IBS attack, covering the physical and emotional impact.

Symptoms of an IBS Attack

Sudden Abdominal Pain and Cramping

One of the defining features of IBS is abdominal pain, which can feel like your intestines are twisting, squeezing, or spasming. Some describe it as a sharp, stabbing sensation, while others say it feels more like a deep, dull ache that never quite goes away.

The pain is often in the lower abdomen but can move around, making it hard to pinpoint exactly where it hurts.
It can come in waves, getting worse and then easing off, only to flare up again.
For some, the pain lessens after going to the toilet, while for others, it lingers regardless of bowel movements.

A common comparison is period cramps or food poisoning pains, except IBS pain can last much longer and strike without warning.

Changes in Bowel Movements – Constipation or Diarrhoea

IBS can swing between two extremes—constipation (IBS-C) or diarrhoea (IBS-D). Some people experience one consistently, while others switch between the two (IBS-M, for mixed type).

Constipation (IBS-C):
- Feeling like you need to go but can’t.
- Hard, dry, or lumpy stools that are difficult to pass.
- A heavy, sluggish feeling that makes you bloated and uncomfortable.
Diarrhoea (IBS-D):
- Urgent, frequent trips to the toilet.
- Loose or watery stools, sometimes accompanied by cramping.
- Feeling like your stomach is in turmoil, with unpredictable urges.

For many, IBS attacks follow a meal, making it hard to eat without anxiety about what might happen next.

Bloating and Gas – Feeling Uncomfortably Full

Imagine blowing up a balloon in your stomach – that’s what IBS bloating can feel like. Some people say their stomach becomes so distended that they look pregnant, even if they’ve only eaten a small meal.

Bloating often builds up throughout the day, making evenings particularly uncomfortable.
It can come with excessive gas, leading to stomach gurgling, trapped wind, or embarrassing moments in social situations.
Clothes can suddenly feel too tight, especially around the waist.

The bloating and discomfort can be worse after eating trigger foods [1], such as dairy, high-fibre foods, or artificial sweeteners.

How IBS Pain and Discomfort Feels

Sharp, Stabbing, or Dull Aches – Different Pain Sensations

IBS pain isn’t one-size-fits-all—it can be sharp and stabbing one day, then a deep, throbbing ache the next. Some people say it feels like being punched in the stomach, while others compare it to the ache of a pulled muscle deep inside the belly.

Cramping pain: Can feel like a tight, squeezing sensation that comes in waves.
Burning pain: Some experience a burning or gnawing sensation, similar to acid reflux but lower down in the abdomen.
Aching pain: A persistent, dull ache that doesn’t go away and may spread across the entire stomach.

Pain intensity varies from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating cramps that make it hard to focus on anything else.

Feeling Like You Need to Go but Can’t – IBS vs. Constipation

A frustrating symptom of IBS is the feeling that you urgently need to go, but when you try, nothing happens. This is particularly common with IBS-C.

You may sit on the toilet for ages, pushing with no results.
Stools, when they do come, may be small, hard, and difficult to pass.
The sensation of not being “finished” after going to the toilet can leave people feeling uncomfortable and bloated.

This differs from regular constipation because it often comes with bloating, cramping, and unpredictable bouts of diarrhoea later on.

Urgent Need to Use the Toilet – IBS vs. Diarrhoea

On the other end of the spectrum, IBS-D can feel like your stomach is in overdrive, leading to sudden, urgent trips to the toilet.

Many describe the sensation as similar to food poisoning, except it happens frequently and without warning.
The urgency can be so strong that people avoid leaving the house without knowing where the nearest toilet is.
Some experience a mix of diarrhoea and constipation, making it impossible to predict what will happen next.

Unlike food poisoning or viral infections, IBS diarrhoea doesn’t usually come with fever or vomiting, but it can still leave people feeling drained and unwell.

The Emotional and Psychological Impact of IBS

Embarrassment and Social Anxiety About Symptoms

IBS isn’t just physically uncomfortable – it can also be emotionally exhausting. The unpredictability of symptoms means many people feel anxious about eating out, social events, or even just leaving the house.

The fear of needing a toilet and not finding one can make people avoid travelling or social gatherings. Excessive gas or bloating can lead to embarrassment, especially in work or dating situations. Some people feel self-conscious about the noises their stomach makes, particularly during quiet moments.

This anxiety can create a vicious cycle—stress worsens IBS [2], and IBS causes more stress, making symptoms harder to manage.

Feeling Unwell and Fatigued During an Episode

Many people with IBS say it’s not just a “tummy issue”—it affects their whole body.

Episodes can leave people drained and fatigued, even after a good night’s sleep.
Some experience nausea, dizziness, or general feelings of being unwell.
Some sufferers liken the energy crash after an IBS attack to recovering from a virus.

This exhaustion can make it difficult to concentrate, work, or enjoy daily life, leading to frustration and irritability.

Worrying About Triggers – The Fear of Flare-Ups

For many, managing IBS means being hyper-aware of everything they eat and do to avoid a flare-up.

Some people develop food fears, worrying that a single meal could trigger a bad episode. Others feel constantly on edge, wondering if stress or routine changes will set off their symptoms. The unpredictability of IBS means even “safe foods” can sometimes cause issues, making people feel like they have no control over their own body.

This constant worry can take a mental toll, leading to anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal in some cases [2].

IBS is more than just a sensitive stomach. It’s a condition that can disrupt daily life in ways that go beyond the digestive system. From the sudden, unpredictable pain to the anxiety of dealing with symptoms in public, an IBS episode can be physically, emotionally, and socially exhausting.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you’re not alone—many people with IBS struggle with the same experiences. The key is finding ways to manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and regain confidence in your daily life.

When to See a Doctor About IBS Symptoms

While IBS can be distressing and disruptive, it’s not usually dangerous. However, there are times when symptoms go beyond what’s typical for IBS, and that’s when a doctor’s input is essential. Knowing when to seek medical advice can help ensure that nothing more serious is being overlooked.

How IBS is Diagnosed

What Doctors Look for When Assessing IBS

Diagnosing IBS isn’t as simple as taking a single test. Instead, doctors rely on a process of elimination, ruling out other conditions before confirming IBS. They’ll start by discussing your symptoms in detail: how long they’ve been happening, how often they occur, and whether anything seems to trigger or relieve them.

A key part of diagnosis is identifying the pattern of symptoms. IBS is often diagnosed using the Rome IV criteria, which considers factors like abdominal pain frequency, changes in bowel habits, and whether symptoms improve after using the toilet. Your doctor may also ask about your diet, stress levels, and whether you have a family history of digestive issues.

Tests and Examinations to Rule Out Other Conditions

Since IBS shares symptoms with several other conditions, doctors often recommend tests to rule out issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), coeliac disease, or infections. These may include blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or nutrient deficiencies, stool tests to detect infections or hidden blood, and, in some cases, a colonoscopy to get a closer look at the intestines.

Unlike conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, IBS doesn’t cause visible damage to the digestive tract. If tests come back normal but symptoms persist, IBS may be the most likely explanation.

Signs That Your Symptoms May Indicate Another Condition

What IBS Shouldn’t Feel Like

While IBS can be painful and disruptive, certain symptoms are not typical of the condition and may point to something more serious.

Severe or persistent pain that doesn’t improve is a red flag. IBS pain tends to come and go, often improving after a bowel movement or fluctuating with stress and diet. If the pain is constant, worsening, or doesn’t seem related to eating or digestion, it could indicate something like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gallstones, or even endometriosis in some cases.

Unexplained weight loss isn’t usually linked to IBS. While changes in appetite due to fear of triggering symptoms can sometimes lead to mild weight fluctuations, sudden or unintentional weight loss could suggest a more serious digestive disorder, malabsorption issues, or even cancer.

Blood in the stool is another symptom that doesn’t typically occur with IBS. While haemorrhoids or small tears (anal fissures) can sometimes cause minor bleeding, seeing bright red blood, dark tarry stools, or streaks of blood mixed in with stool can be a sign of infections, IBD, or even colorectal cancer, all of which require urgent medical attention.

Fever and persistent fatigue are also uncommon in IBS. While IBS can leave people feeling drained due to disrupted sleep or frequent discomfort, a persistent fever could point to an underlying infection or inflammatory condition like diverticulitis or Crohn’s disease. If fatigue is extreme and ongoing, conditions like coeliac disease, thyroid disorders, or anaemia might be worth investigating.

Difficulty swallowing or chronic acid reflux suggests something beyond IBS. While some IBS sufferers experience occasional nausea, ongoing issues with swallowing, persistent heartburn, or food feeling stuck in the throat could be signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), oesophageal disorders, or even food allergies.

Waking up at night due to pain or urgency is another symptom that merits investigation. If symptoms regularly wake you up from sleep, it could be a sign of a more serious issue, such as ulcers, IBD, or infections affecting the digestive system.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms alongside what feels like IBS, it’s important to seek medical advice. While IBS can significantly impact quality of life, it shouldn’t cause severe or alarming symptoms. When in doubt, checking in with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and peace of mind.

How to Cure IBS Permanently – Is It Possible?

IBS can feel like an endless cycle of discomfort, trial-and-error diets, and frustration. Many people desperately search for a permanent cure, hoping to find a solution that makes their symptoms disappear for good. But is it actually possible to cure IBS, or is it more about long-term management?

The truth is, while there isn’t a one-size-fits-all “cure” for IBS, many people find ways to dramatically reduce their symptoms—or even eliminate them altogether—by identifying their personal triggers and making targeted lifestyle changes. With the right approach, it’s possible to regain control over your digestion and feel like yourself again.

Managing IBS With Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Since IBS is often triggered by food, stress, and gut imbalances, making changes in these areas can have a huge impact. While there’s no single diet or treatment that works for everyone, here are some of the most effective strategies:

1. Personalised Nutrition: Finding the Right Diet for You

One of the biggest breakthroughs in managing IBS is realising that different foods affect people in different ways. Some of the most common food triggers include:

High-FODMAP foods – These fermentable carbohydrates can cause bloating and digestive discomfort in some people. The Low FODMAP diet, developed by researchers at Monash University, has helped many IBS sufferers identify problem foods and reduce symptoms.
Dairy and gluten – Some IBS sufferers find that lactose or gluten worsens their symptoms, even if they don’t have an official intolerance.
Processed foods and artificial sweeteners – Ingredients like sorbitol and aspartame (found in sugar-free products) can trigger bloating and diarrhoea.

However, strict elimination diets aren’t always necessary. Working with a functional medicine practitioner or nutritionist can help you pinpoint your specific triggers without unnecessarily cutting out foods that your body can tolerate. A nutritionist can also guide you in healing your gut, ensuring that you’re not just avoiding symptoms but actually improving your digestion in the long run.

2. Balancing Gut Health: Supporting the Microbiome

Your gut microbiome—the trillions of bacteria living in your intestines—plays a major role in IBS symptoms [3]. If your gut bacteria are out of balance, it can lead to bloating, irregular bowel movements, and inflammation.

Some ways to support gut health include:

Probiotics – Certain probiotic strains have been shown to help with IBS symptoms [4]. However, not all probiotics work for everyone, so personalised advice is key.
Prebiotic foods – Foods like bananas, oats, and asparagus feed healthy gut bacteria but can sometimes worsen symptoms if introduced too quickly.
Digestive enzymes – Some studies suggest certain people may benefit from enzyme supplements [5] that help break down food more effectively, reducing bloating and discomfort, however more research is needed to substantiate this claim.

A functional medicine practitioner can run advanced gut tests to assess your microbiome and help restore balance using targeted nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes.

3. Stress Management and the Gut-Brain Connection

Stress and anxiety are huge triggers for IBS. Your gut and brain are connected via the gut-brain axis, meaning emotional stress can directly impact your digestion [6].

Some effective ways to manage stress-related IBS symptoms include:

Mindfulness and meditation – Practicing mindfulness has been shown to reduce IBS severity by calming the nervous system [7].
Gut-directed hypnotherapy – Research suggests that hypnosis focused on digestive health can significantly reduce IBS symptoms for many people [8].
Exercise – Low-impact activities like yoga, walking, and swimming can help regulate digestion and reduce bloating.

For those whose IBS is closely linked to anxiety, working with a functional medicine practitioner, health coach, or therapist who understands the gut-brain connection can make a world of difference.

Can IBS Be Cured? A Look at Long-Term Solutions

While there isn’t a single pill or treatment that “cures” IBS, many people find that, with the right approach, their symptoms become rare or even disappear entirely. The key is treating the root causes rather than just managing flare-ups.

A functional medicine approach looks beyond symptom management and focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying imbalances causing IBS. This could involve:

Comprehensive gut testing to detect bacterial imbalances, infections, or food intolerances.
Personalised dietary recommendations instead of generic IBS advice.
Addressing stress and nervous system imbalances that contribute to digestive issues.

While there’s no universal “cure” for IBS, it’s absolutely possible to take control of your symptoms and live without daily digestive distress. If IBS is affecting your life, working with a specialist who can provide personalised guidance could be the key to finding lasting relief.

Conclusion: Understanding IBS and Finding the Right Support

IBS isn’t just a bit of bloating or the occasional upset stomach – it’s a condition that can affect every part of your life. The cramping, unpredictable bowel movements, and constant discomfort can leave you feeling exhausted, frustrated, and sometimes even anxious about eating or leaving the house.

It’s a condition that varies from person to person, with some experiencing constipation, others diarrhoea, and many swinging between both. The emotional toll can be just as challenging as the physical symptoms, making it difficult to feel in control of your own body.

While IBS can be distressing, it’s important to know what it should and shouldn’t feel like. IBS pain tends to come and go, often improving after a bowel movement or changing with diet and stress levels. If your symptoms include severe, constant pain, unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, fever, or waking up at night due to urgency, these could be signs of something more serious that requires medical attention. Always listen to your body. If something feels off, don’t ignore it.

The good news is that, although there may not be a single “cure” for IBS, many people find significant relief by addressing the root causes of their symptoms. Identifying triggers, improving gut health, managing stress, and working with a nutritionist or functional medicine practitioner can help transform the way you feel day to day.

At IBS Clinics, we specialise in helping people just like you get to the bottom of their gut health issues. Using advanced diagnostic testing, personalised nutrition plans, and expert guidance, we help you move away from just managing symptoms and towards lasting relief. If you’re ready to take control of your IBS and find out what works for your body, visit IBS Clinics to learn more and book a consultation today.

References

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME, FOOD INTOLERANCE AND NON- CELIAC GLUTEN SENSITIVITY. A NEW CLINICAL CHALLENGE. Arquivos de gastroenterologia. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30785529/
The Healthline Editorial Team, Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA (2017) Stress, Anxiety, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. healthline.com. https://www.healthline.com/health/irritable-bowel-syndrome/stress-and-anxiety
Mars et al. (2020) Longitudinal Multi-omics Reveals Subset-Specific Mechanisms Underlying Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Cell. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32916129/
Goodoory et al. (2023) Efficacy of Probiotics in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Gastroenterology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37541528/
Jacquelyn Cafasso (2017) Digestive Enzymes for IBS: Best Supplements and Benefits. healthline.com. https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/digestive-enzymes-for-ibs
Konturek et al. (2011) Stress and the gut: pathophysiology, clinical consequences, diagnostic approach and treatment options. Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22314561/
Sarah Garone (2023) Reversing IBS: Is It Possible?. healthline.com. https://www.healthline.com/health/reversing-ibs
Moser et al. (2013) Long-term success of GUT-directed group hypnosis for patients with refractory irritable bowel syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. The American journal of gastroenterology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23419384/

Author – Tracey Randell

At IBS Clinics, Tracey Randell, a renowned Nutritional Therapist and one of the few IFM Certified Practitioners in the UK, extends her specialised knowledge and unique approach to managing and treating IBS and other gut-related conditions effectively.

Tracey’s profound understanding of Functional Medicine allows her to connect the dots for complex health conditions, identifying and addressing the root causes to curate personalised and comprehensive health plans for her patients. Her holistic approach focuses on resolving underlying imbalances and optimising gut health, enabling the body to correct other issues and attain overall well-being.

At IBS Clinics, we are dedicated to being your partner in navigating your gut-related health concerns, offering expert care and individualised treatment plans to alleviate your IBS symptoms and enhance your quality of life.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products and methods mentioned are not a substitute for professional medical advice from a trained healthcare specialist. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Use of the information and products discussed is at your own risk.