Dangers of Colon Cleansing for IBS

For people suffering from chronic bowel diseases like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia, colon cleansing may seem like an easy, effective solution. Gastroenterologists like Mayo Clinic’s Michael Picco generally agree that colon cleansing for IBS is unproven and possibly dangerous. There is little scientific evidence to support– or refute– the notion that colon cleansing can ease the symptoms of IBS.

However, as someone with an eye toward alternative medicine, I decided to try a one-week colon cleanse to see if it would help to relieve some of my symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Surprisingly, my gastroenterologist believed that I could be one of the few people who may benefit from it– yet he warned me about many of the possible dangers colon cleansing for IBS.

Here are some of the complications you may experience while doing a colon cleanse for IBS, and how you might avoid these complications.

Diarrhea

Expect to experience severe diarrhea during your colon cleanse, particularly if you are using stimulant or saline laxatives. Bulk laxatives like psyllium husk are not associated with this side effect.

Dehydration

Several days of loose stools may cause you to experience dehydration. Drink lots of water. Go to an emergency room if you show symptoms of life-threatening dehydration, such as dizziness or delirium.

Drug Interactions

If your digestion speeds up significantly during a colon cleanse, you may be unable to properly absorb medications and supplements– including popular IBS treatments like Bentyl and peppermint oil.

Cramping

Cramping is a major side effect associated with most forms of laxatives; it is especially common in IBS sufferers. Almost all strong colon cleansing products can cause cramping and other painful side effects.

Dependence

After several days of continued use, your bowels may not function properly without the help of a laxative. Some people become chronically dependent on laxatives after pursuing colon cleansing programs.

Hemorrhoids

Diarrhea from colon cleansing may cause hemorrhoids, which are painful and may cause bleeding. This problem is particularly common in people with pre-existing conditions like IBS.

Vomiting

Some people react unusually to the laxatives used in colon cleansing for IBS. Vomiting is not an uncommon side effect.

Weight Loss

This may seem like a positive effect of colon cleansing, but it can be dangerous to some individuals. The weight loss you experience may be because of lost fluids and nutrients. People who are underweight should not attempt a colon cleanse unless directed to do so by a physician.

Electrolyte Imbalance

If you have kidney or heart disease, electrolyte imbalance from colon cleansing may threaten your life. This is a common side effect of the over-the-counter laxative sodium phosphate.

Fortunately, I didn’t experience any extremely severe side effects from colon cleansing, and my IBS symptoms were milder than usual in the week following the cleanse. I found that it was ultimately worth a try, but I would not recommend it as a routine intervention, especially for people with properly functioning digestive systems. If your colon ain’t broke, don’t try to fix it– especially not without a health care provider’s supervision.