I am often asked how long IBS can last, and how long IBS flare ups can last. So I will be talking about both in this article, based on what I know from my own journey, my coaching clients, and people who come on a Discovery Call with me.
How long can an IBS flare up last?
According to the Gut Clinic, “They can last anywhere from a few hours to several days or even weeks.”
In my experience with clients, there is no rule. Everyone has their own unique version of IBS.
I have known IBS sufferers with flare-ups lasting for a week at a time.
Also people who would go a few days or weeks with nothing, and then have 3 or 4 consecutive days with flares.
Other people have an intense flare up that lasts several weeks, and then months with no symptoms at all.
So there really is no rule of thumb. And the durations of flare-ups can change over time too.
When my symptoms started I had a flare that would last several days.
Before I started reversing my IBS symptoms, I was having them every day from the moment I woke up, to when I went to bed. (And even at night I was not comfortable.)
How long can IBS last
I have been very surprised at how long symptoms can last.
My IBS symptoms lasted 25 years. And to be honest if I hadn’t decided for that to change I think they would have continued. My symptoms were getting worse, not better.
One of my clients started having symptoms when she was 4 years old. And came to me when she was nearly 70. Nothing she had tried before had really helped her. I’m so glad we could turn her IBS around.
We are all wasting too much time, potential and life dealing with IBS symptoms. It is time to change that!
If you’re not convinced, use this tool to check out how much time you are spending on IBS each week. You may be surprised at what you discover!
What can help you
Many IBS experts will expect you to keep “managing” your IBS.
While this can be a temporary measure, in my experience IBS tends to get worse.
Instead, I recommend taking the time necessary to find your main IBS triggers – and learn how to release them.
If you find this overwhelming, you’re not alone. It takes courage to change.