Health & Wellbeing 
Coaching

I was diagnosed as suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) 20 years ago. It is a condition that can make daily life a challenge for some people. Managing IBS meant navigating a range of uncomfortable symptoms and adjusting to a new way of living. I thought I’d found a balance and was managing well until life threw me a curveball.

Recently I experienced an acute flare up of Diverticulitis, a condition that I know about through my professional training, but never thought I would experience personally as I have a very balanced diet and have always liked my fruits and vegetables.

Being hospitalized was a wake up call for me. it highlighted the seriousness of my condition and the importance of seeking timely medical care. This experience has taught me the significance of listening to my body, advocating for my own health and recognising when to seek help.

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The difference between IBS and Diverticulosis is hard to define by symptoms alone. Most symptoms for both conditions are very similar.

IBS is a functional gastro intestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits, without any signs of damage or inflammation in the digestive tract. It is a condition that can be managed with dietery and lifestyle changes. On the other hand diverticulitis is a condition where inflammation or infection of small pockets (diverticular) can form in the walls of the colon. Diverticular themselves are common and usually harmless but when they become inflamed or infected, it can lead to diverticulitis which can cause symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea and changes in bowel habits and lead to hospitalization.

It is very important if you have diverticulosis, to make sure you get plenty of rest, have a healthy diet, drink your water (don't gulp, sip) and limiting your stress levels by making lifestyle changes.