Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Gastrointestinal Issues Caused by Excessive Drinking

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a common large intestine disorder. If you have experienced it before, you recognise its symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and constipation. However, there are various causes of IBS. One major cause is alcohol abuse. The connection between the two lies in alcohol’s ability to interfere with the normal functioning of the digestive tract muscles.

Currently, IBS affects approximately 10-12% of the UK population. Similarly, alcohol abuse is widespread, with the World Health Organization estimating around 2.3 billion people worldwide. The major complication of excessive drinking is that it also contributes to over 200 diseases and injury-related health conditions. If you want information for yourself or a loved one, we will explore the link between alcohol abuse and IBS.

The Providence Projects facilities are well-equipped to provide you with the necessary personal space for healing from your alcohol-induced gastrointestinal issues. We provide en-suite bedrooms and can arrange a longer-term programme if you need it to feel more confident in your returning back to everyday stressors and responsibilities.

Overview of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a complex and multifactorial disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the large intestine. Although the exact mechanisms underlying IBS are not entirely understood, several factors are believed to contribute to its development and symptoms.

Some common symptoms include:

1. Abdominal pain or discomfort
2. Altered bowel habits
3. Abdominal bloating and distension
4. Gas and flatulence
5. Mucus in the stool

Aside from IBS, other common gastrointestinal issues include:

• Acid reflux
• Diarrhoea
• Gastritis
• Pancreatitis

IBS and these GIT issues are quite common. However, have you wondered if they are being triggered by excessive drinking?

The Link Between Alcohol Abuse and IBS

We often consume alcohol orally; this means alcohol directly affects the digestive system. Thus, alcohol can lead to various gastrointestinal issues, including IBS. Evidence suggests a link between alcohol abuse and the development or worsening of Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. While alcohol itself is not considered a direct cause of IBS, it can exacerbate symptoms and trigger flare-ups if you are predisposed to the condition.

Excessive alcohol consumption significantly impacts gastrointestinal (GI) health, often exacerbating symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Research published has highlighted the strong correlation between binge drinking and GI symptom flare-ups in individuals with IBS. Patterns of heavy drinking were found to intensify symptoms such as diarrhoea, nausea, indigestion, and abdominal pain, particularly in women with IBS-D (diarrhoea-predominant IBS). Alcohol interferes with gut motility and disrupts the intestinal lining, contributing to inflammation, hypersensitivity, and disrupted gut-brain signalling. While light to moderate drinking demonstrates weaker associations, binge drinking significantly exacerbates next-day GI symptoms, underscoring the importance of reducing alcohol intake in IBS management.

From a broader perspective, chronic alcohol use compromises the structural and functional balance of the gut. According to studies, excessive alcohol consumption disrupts nutrient absorption and increases intestinal permeability, a condition often referred to as “leaky gut.” The damaged gut lining allows bacterial toxins and endotoxins to seep into the bloodstream, potentially triggering systemic inflammation and increasing the risk of liver injury. Alcohol also affects the intestinal immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fend off infections while intensifying inflammatory responses in the GI tract. Acute and chronic alcohol exposure has been shown to impair the absorption of amino acids, vitamins, and other nutrients, leading to malnutrition and further health complications, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions like IBS.

Here is the relationship between alcohol abuse and IBS:

1. Increased intestinal permeability: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to increased intestinal permeability, also known as “leaky gut.” This means that the lining of the intestines becomes more porous, allowing toxins and bacteria to leak into the bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response and result in inflammation, which may worsen IBS symptoms.

2. Changes in gut microbiota: Alcohol consumption often disrupts the balance of bacteria in the gut, known as the gut microbiota. Imbalances in the gut microbiota have been associated with IBS. Alcohol abuse can promote the growth of harmful bacteria while reducing the presence of beneficial bacteria, which may further contribute to IBS symptoms.

3. Effects on mental health: Alcohol abuse and IBS are associated with an increased risk of mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. These conditions can interact and worsen each other, leading to a cycle of symptoms.

Alcohol Abuse And Other GI Problems

Alcohol consumption can also affect the gastrointestinal system. Here are some of the key connections between alcohol and gastrointestinal problems:

1. Gastritis: Alcohol irritates and inflames the stomach lining, leading to gastritis. Gastritis symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
2. Peptic ulcers: Alcohol abuse has been associated with an increased risk of peptic ulcers. These open sores develop in the stomach lining or the small intestine’s upper part. Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the protective lining of the stomach and intestines, making them more susceptible to the acid in the digestive tract.
3. Pancreatitis: Chronic alcohol abuse is a leading cause of pancreatitis. Alcohol-induced pancreatitis can be extremely painful and may lead to digestive problems.

Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you already developed alcohol-triggered IBS, we advise you to pay attention to your triggers. We also recommend that you limit or avoid alcohol consumption completely. It is more likely to consistently worsen your IBS symptoms. Here are some other ways to treat IBS:

• Taking over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage symptoms
• Participating in therapy options
• Modifying lifestyle with new activities like exercise

If you’re struggling to quit alcohol it may be a sign of dependence. If you are worried about your alcohol consumption, speak to our treatment team today to learn more about how we can help you through our comprehensive alcohol addiction rehab services.