Does travel trigger IBS?


Does travel trigger IBS? It's no secret that stress directly impacts our health – and IBS is no different. Elevated stress levels can cause IBS symptoms to flare up, so work ahead to eliminate the most frustrating aspects of traveling: Book a cruise to streamline the process – lodging, food and activity, all in one!


Why does flying affect your bowels?

For instance, flying is often a triple whammy — stress, dehydration and pressure changes are a recipe for experiencing constipation while traveling if you're not careful, especially if you're already prone to it.


Can flying cause IBS flare up?

During travel, people tend to have higher stress levels and changes in their daily patterns. They may also eat different foods than usual. Any one or a combination of these factors could trigger an IBS flare in some individuals.


Why do I get diarrhea every time I travel?

It's possible that traveler's diarrhea may stem from the stress of traveling or a change in diet. But usually infectious agents — such as bacteria, viruses or parasites — are to blame. You typically develop traveler's diarrhea after ingesting food or water contaminated with organisms from feces.


Why do I get IBS when I travel?

During travel, people tend to have higher stress levels and changes in their daily patterns. They may also eat different foods than usual. Any one or a combination of these factors could trigger an IBS flare in some individuals.


How do you fix travelers diarrhea?

Learn some ways to treat travelers' diarrhea
  1. Drink lots of fluids. If you get diarrhea, drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated. ...
  2. Take over-the-counter drugs. Several drugs, such as loperamide, can be bought over-the-counter to treat the symptoms of diarrhea. ...
  3. Only take antibiotics if needed.


Can flying mess up your gut?

The greater the difference between the pressure in the atmosphere and that in your body, the more the air in your stomach is going to expand — and that's why you begin to feel bloated while flying. Bloating is annoying enough on its own, but if it persists, it can also contribute to constipation.


How do I reset my stomach after traveling?

Equally important is to restore your gut to full function. “Go for a walk to kickstart the digestive system and drink plenty of fresh warm or room temperature water, Nishtha advises. Try and eat a big green salad or other vegetables and fruits to get fibre into your system and get the bowels moving again, she adds.


Is flying bad for IBS?

The air pressure in an airplane cabin is lower than at sea level. This allows for air and gas to expand in the intestines, causing the stomach to cramp. Low impact exercises, such as yoga and cycling, are a great way to relieve and prevent IBS symptoms. Be sure to repeat these exercises after you land.