Do you suffer from IBS? If so, you know that flare-ups can be unpredictable and frustrating. 

It’s hard to know how long a flare-up will last or what you can do to make it go away. 

In this blog post, we will explore the different factors that can contribute to flare-ups and offer tips on how to cope with them. 

What Is An IBS Flare-Up?

An IBS flare-up is an increase in IBS symptoms. 

These common symptoms can include abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, stomach cramps, excessive gas, constipation, and bloating

Flare-ups can be caused by various factors, including certain foods, daily stress, food sensitivities, medications, and changes in routine.

How Long Does An IBS Flare-Up Last? 

There is no one answer to this question since flare-ups can vary from person to person. 

However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow. 

Most flare-ups will last for a few days or weeks, but they may occasionally last for several months. 

If your symptoms persist beyond three months, it is important to see a doctor to rule out other conditions.

Can An IBS Attack Last For Days?

An IBS flare-up can last for days. 

In fact, the average flare-up lasts around two to four days. 

It’s essential to pay attention to your body and symptoms so that you can manage them as effectively as possible.

Can An IBS Flare Last For Weeks?

In more severe cases, an IBS flare-up can last for weeks. 

Irritable bowel syndrome flare-up symptoms can last for up to two to four weeks for some individuals. 

If your flare-up lasts longer than usual, it is important to seek medical help. 

Family history, other medications, weight loss, health conditions, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, digestive tract issues, or other factors could be leading to an unusual response within your body.

How Do You Calm Down An IBS Flare-Up?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to deal with a flare-up will vary from person to person. 

General tips that may help include:

  • Drinking plenty of fluids
  • Eating bland and easily digestible foods
  • Avoiding sugar alcohols, caffeine, alcohol, dairy products, and spicy foods
  • Taking over the counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
  • Using heat or ice packs to soothe abdominal pain

Tips for Coping With An IBS Flare-Up

There are a few things that you can do to help cope with IBS attacks:

  • Find ways to reduce stress levels. This may include yoga, meditation, physical activity, relaxation techniques, or deep breathing exercises.
  • Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms. These vary from person to person, so it’s critical to track your food diary closely and identify any patterns.
  • Continue taking your regular medications unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

If you follow these tips, you should be able to manage your irritable bowel syndrome IBS symptoms more effectively during a flare-up!

Why Do I Keep Getting IBS Flare-Ups?

If you are experiencing more IBS flare-ups than usual, it may be due to lifestyle changes, stressful situations, food sensitivities, changes in routine, and other prescribed medications. 

It’s essential to pay attention to your body and specific symptoms to identify any potential common triggers.

The Best Ways To Battle Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The best way to battle irritable bowel syndrome IBS involves understanding your body, its triggers, and how to deal with flare-ups. 

This may include reflecting on your daily food journal, working closely with your doctor, and introducing gradual lifestyle changes.

Probiotics, Vitamins, and Supplements For IBS Flare-Ups

There are a variety of probiotics, vitamins, and supplements that you can take to help battle an IBS flare-up. 

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria found in yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other fermented foods. 

They can also be taken as a supplement. 

Probiotics can help improve gut health and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. 

Vitamins and supplements can also help manage IBS symptoms. 

Some common supplements that are effective include omega-three fatty acids, magnesium, and fiber.

Which Probiotics Are For IBS? 

There are a variety of probiotics that can be effective for managing IBS symptoms. 

Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are two types of probiotics that are helpful. 

To prevent or minimize symptoms of IBS, we recommend GOL Nutrition’s IBPRO Probiotic

IBPro is a custom formulated probiotic that uses innovative MAKTrek® 3-D Bypass Technology. 

This means that all beneficial probiotic bacteria make it to your gut instead of getting trapped in your stomach acid. 

Summary

It can be hard to know how long an irritable bowel syndrome IBS flare-up will last. 

Many factors go into deciding this length of time, including the severity and type of IBS symptoms you have. 

Some IBS patients with milder cases might only need a few days before feeling IBS relief, while others may experience more severe symptoms for longer periods. 

If your pain or discomfort worsens or you notice other changes in your body, it’s important to consider natural remedies such as mindfulness meditation, vitamins, and probiotics. 

We also recommend working with your doctor on a low FODMAP diet to treat IBS digestive symptoms.

About the Author

Isabella Benn is the lead copywriter and content wizard at Health Apes with an expertise in health research. She specializes in gut health, nutrition, food and recipes.