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Are you spending more time in the bathroom than you’d like? A slew of posts on TikTok show you’re not alone. Young people, especially women, are taking to social media to talk about gastrointestinal distress, such as irritable bowel syndrome or chronic bloating. Some experts say that’s mostly a good thing, as it can help others seek help for a topic that has been taboo. But they stress that it’s important to understand that many people are sometimes being paid to promote unproven products, and that misinformation is rampant. Here’s what else medical professionals recommend you do if you’re experiencing digestive distress.
Why are more young people talking about digestive problems online?
It is unclear whether there has been an increase in digestive troubles overall. Some experts attribute this trend to a rise in anxiety in an already anxious generation following the pandemic. Ample research and science shows that our brain and gut are connected via the nervous system. This means that when your brain is anxious or you feel depressed, it can transmit those signals to your gut, which can make it difficult for your gastrointestinal tract to function properly.
The causes of irritable bowel syndrome are unknown, but experts say the nervous system has a major impact on the condition and stress can make symptoms worse. Dr. Neena Gupta, a Chicago-based gastroenterologist, said managing her patients’ condition often also involves managing their mental health.
When should you see a doctor?
“It depends on your level of discomfort,” said Dr. Uma Naidu, director of nutrition and lifestyle psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. She studies the connection between food and the brain. She said a sudden change in bowel habits is worrisome and may require further evaluation.
“For example, someone who never had any digestive problems in childhood or throughout their life and then suddenly has a very severe and significant change in their bowel habits,” he said. “These are all things we want someone to talk to their doctor about.” And if you see blood in your stool — no matter how much or how often — or you’re having diarrhea for more than a few weeks, seek treatment right away.
What can I do to relieve digestive pain?
Naidu said certain mindfulness practices, such as stress management, meditation and breathing exercises, can help. Sensitivities to foods can trigger IBS symptoms, so adjusting your diet and getting more exercise can also make a difference.
“Just doing something like finding a good probiotic that they take, or adding probiotics and fermented foods to their diet slowly and steadily can be good,” he said. “Stress management is a big part of this. In combination with dietary adjustments, it can be very powerful.” However, if symptoms worsen or become unmanageable at home, that should be a signal to seek professional help.
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