Stress can be a trigger for IBS symptoms, but it is also because of IBS symptoms we feel stress. It's a repetitive cycle sometimes! Stress is an intrusive part of life when living with IBS. Learning to manage stress and beat the IBS/stress cycle becomes paramount.

On myIBSteam, the social network and online support group for those living with IBS, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Stress is one of the top 10 topics most discussed.

Here are a few question-and-answer threads about stress:

• Does anyone else get palpitations that aren't associated with stress or anxiety?

• I'm having a bad week with a lot of new symptoms is this normal?

• Does anyone else feel tightness in their abdomen often?

Here are some conversations about stress:

• Today the bloating is minimal, I am very grateful for that.

• This past month has been hard. The doctor has tried different anxiety medication.

• I've been trying to stay mindful of triggers and stress.

Have another topic you'd like to discuss or explore? Go to myIBSteam today and start the conversation. You'll be surprised just how many others may share similar stories.

Feel free to ask a question here.