Irritable bowel syndrome apps

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects your digestive system. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and constipation, or alternating periods of both. Read more about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

There are a variety of irritable bowel syndrome apps, that may help you manage your condition better. Some of these apps offer specific features, eg, tracking food intake, monitoring symptoms, providing dietary recommendations, offering stress-reduction techniques, and even connecting users with a community of others dealing with IBS.

• Recording details of your symptoms and your diet, including the food you eat and drink, can help you learn how your body responds to certain foods and help you recognise patterns and triggers.
• It can also assist you to assess whether treatments are working for you and improve communication with your healthcare provider by giving a more accurate description of your symptoms.
• Here are some tips on how to use irritable bowel syndrome apps safely.

How to use irritable bowel syndrome safely

Do (✔)

• Irritable bowel syndrome apps are best used under the supervision of a health professional. They can help you assess if the app is suitable for you.
• Use an app to keep track of your symptoms as part of your management plan.
• Use graphs and reporting for a discussion with your healthcare provider.
• Be careful when reading information on discussion boards or group chat rooms. Some apps have interactive features where users can share their experiences. Be cautious because in most cases these aren't monitored by a health professional so the advice or suggestions may not be safe or effective.
• Know when to seek help.

Don’t (✘)

• Rely on apps to make a diagnosis of your condition.
• Use treatments without first seeking medical and professional advice.
• Make changes to your medicines based on the recommendations from the app.