Create a schedule. If you train your body with a regular schedule of meals, exercise, and bathroom breaks, you may be able to reduce your trips to the bathroom except for those routine times. Try to schedule meetings and presentations well in advance or well after your scheduled breaks.
Limit long meetings, presentations, and travel. If your job requires these responsibilities — or if they pop up — talk to your supervisor about your IBS, and try to come up with an alternative solution. If you can’t travel because of your IBS, try to arrange for conference calls or use videoconference technology.
Reduce stress. Working can almost always cause some stress, but minimize it as much as you can. Stay organized at work so that you don’t get overwhelmed or caught off guard.
Find a work buddy who can pitch in when you have to step out. Sometimes, your symptoms will act up and there may not be anything you can do about it. Ask a trusted friend or co-worker to help you out when you need it and stand in for you on occasion. Just be sure to return the favor and do your share of the work.
Prevent symptoms with medication. If you suffer from diarrhea or gas, talk to your doctor about over-the-counter medications that can prevent symptoms. If you have a big meeting at work or something that you just can’t miss, try to take an anti-diarrheal or gas-dissolving medicine beforehand. If over-the-counter medications don’t help, your doctor may consider prescription medication to calm symptoms.
Prevent triggers with diet. If certain foods cause your IBS symptoms to flare up, make sure you avoid them.