Can flying cause IBS?

The increase in symptoms, Bedford says, is not typically caused by the flight itself but by the anxiety of flying. Flight anxiety and underlying stress from delays or unexpected changes to travel plans may cause many people's IBS to flare up, he says.



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Acute infectious diarrhea associated with travel (i.e., travelers' diarrhea) has been identified as an important risk factor for the development of initial-onset IBS.

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Traveling by plane can be difficult for those who suffer from bowel symptoms. Ask to sit as close to the restroom as possible. Also, sit on an aisle for easy and fast access so you will not have to ask others to move. When planning your trip, consider driving if possible.

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Travel constipation happens when you don't keep to your regular schedule. Sitting for hours, like during a long flight and train or bus rides, and having your usual diet interrupted are two possible culprits. Constipation can last for a day or two or longer.

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It's possible that traveler's diarrhea may stem from the stress of traveling or a change in diet. But usually infectious agents — such as bacteria, viruses or parasites — are to blame. You typically develop traveler's diarrhea after ingesting food or water contaminated with organisms from feces.

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Flying causes an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots - particularly in flights over eight hours long. Having Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can put you at a three times greater risk of developing DVT than the general population, with flares creating an even further risk1.

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Well, it turns out that flying makes us more prone to bloating. Gas is a natural byproduct of digestion, caused by swallowing air as we eat and other processes in the body.

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