It’s National Pharmacists Day on Sunday 12 January so we’d like to introduce you to our pharmacist adviser Ewa Gabzdy.

Ewa is a community pharmacist who works for the Medicines Management Team at Sheffield Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), which includes support for GP practices.

Can you tell us about yourself and your career to date?

I have been a qualified pharmacist for 13 years. It’s been an interesting journey for me. I worked as a community pharmacist for six years, then moved to work for a clinical commissioning group as a medicines management clinical pharmacist. I use my knowledge and experience to support both clinicians and patients.

When did you develop an interest in IBS and The IBS Network?

As part of my clinical pharmacist role I am responsible for looking after an area that falls under the gastrointestinal system. I have been involved in The IBS Network’s work since 2015. I joined the charity because I wanted to gain a better understanding of what it’s like to live with and manage IBS.

What advice do you have for people struggling with IBS?

I would advise you to keep a diary. Write down your IBS symptoms, medications taken, what you are eating, how you are feeling and what is happening in your life.

This may help to identify possible factors involved in triggering your symptoms and interventions that may be helpful with symptom control.

It becomes much easier to work on finding solutions and self-care ideas when you have a bigger picture in front of you. Moreover, having the diary and information helps you to have a more informed discussion with your health professional (be that your GP, pharmacist or dietitian) about your symptoms and possible best interventions and treatment options.

Members of The IBS Network can put their IBS questions to Ewa as part of our Ask the Experts online resource.

Find out more about keeping a wellness diary here.