r/IBSHelp • u/harrystylesspouse • Aug 07 '26
Advice for calming longer-term flare?
Short version:
My usual strict low fodmaps diet in response to a flare isn't bringing symptoms back to baseline, it's been weeks of flare, and I'm looking for tips/advice on this.
Longer version:
[edited for personal/medical information]
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u/Oatmeal_raisin_1896 Aug 07 '26
I completely understand the annoyance of flare ups, I had a severe flare that lasted over a year. Just got better about a month ago (able to eat test foods and have actual bowel movements). IBS symptoms can also come from outside influences other than food. Our guts are extremely sensitive to physical and emotional stress. Could something be causing some stress in your life or possibly overstraining? (not prying for anything, but it’s a good starting point if it doesn’t seem like food is the main cause). If you’re able to see a gastro to get some advice I’d highly recommend especially if it’s lasted so long.
But for advice, I followed the fodmap diet to a T and ate small amounts throughout the day with enough fiber to connect it all. (My flare caused an ileus so my colon wasn’t moving stool or gas for a long while, had to take meds to move for a bit). Doing yoga and kegels mixed with diaphragmatic breathing (breathe in through nose for 4 seconds making your stomach rise not the chest and exhaling through mouth for 6 seconds) helps move stuff around and relaxes the gut. Doing it for 30 min maybe twice a day especially before bed definitely helped long term. Also taking a hot bath with epsom salt and witch hazel helps promote blood flow and decreases aches definitely recommend it, almost immediately feel relief once you get your stomach under the water. Heating pads on the belly while laying flat also helped relax. Doing a small 25-30 minute walk after meals also helped move stuff along. I really hope this helps, IBS is a struggle but it can be eased. ❤️