Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common illness that affects the large intestine (colon) and is distinguished by a set of symptoms that occur concurrently, including chronic stomach pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or both. Although IBS is uncomfortable, it does not cause lasting damage to the intestines or raise the risk of other serious disorders.
Symptoms of IBS
- Abdomen pain and cramping: This is a hallmark of IBS. The pain is commonly associated with bowel motions and can be eased by passing stool. The amount and location of pain differ from person to person and might be minor or severe.
- Bloating & Gas: IBS patients frequently express feelings of fullness or bloating, which can worsen throughout the day and improve at night.
- Diarrhea or constipation: IBS is usually divided into three kinds depending on bowel habits: IBS-D (Diarrhea-Predominant): Frequent, loose stools, IBS-C (mostly constipation): Stools that are hard and difficult to pass.IBS-M (Mixed type): alternating diarrhea and constipation.
- Mucus in the stool: Some patients with IBS may observe whitish mucus in their stool, which is not normally found in healthy bowel movements.
- Changes in the frequency or form of stools: People with IBS usually have irregular bowel movements, which occur more or less frequently than usual. Stools can be firm, lumpy, or loose, watery.
Causes of IBS
The precise cause of IBS is unknown, but various variables are thought to play a role.
- Gut-Brain Interactions: IBS is sometimes referred to be a “gut-brain axis disorder,” which means that the nerves that regulate the intestines may be too sensitive, resulting in pain and changes in bowel function.
- Muscle contractions in the intestine: The walls of the intestines are lined with muscles that contract as food passes through the digestive system. Stronger or longer contractions can result in gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Weak contractions might impede food transit and result in firm, dry stools.
- Stress: Stress does not cause IBS, but it can aggravate or exacerbate symptoms. The neural system’s response to stress can cause increased gastrointestinal sensitivity.
- Food sensitivities: Certain foods can cause IBS symptoms. Common triggers include fatty foods, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners.
- Gut flora (microbiome): People with IBS may have an imbalance of gut flora (microbiome), which can impair digestion and bowel motions.
- Hormonal Changes: IBS symptoms might intensify with hormonal shifts, especially in women during their menstrual periods.
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Diagnosis
IBS is diagnosed mostly through symptoms, as no definite testing exists. Doctors frequently utilize the Rome Criteria to diagnose IBS, which requires: Abdominal pain for at least one day each week in the last three months, accompanied by two or more of the following:
Pain due to bowel motions. A variation in the frequency of stools. A change in the appearance or shape of stool. Doctors may also use blood testing, stool tests, and a colonoscopy to rule out other illnesses such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Treatment
IBS cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed by lifestyle modifications and treatment.
- Dietary Changes: A low FODMAP diet involves avoiding fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), which can aggravate IBS symptoms. A high-fiber diet, particularly for people with IBS-C, helps improve stool consistency. Probiotics: Some probiotics can help balance gut bacteria and reduce symptoms.
- Medications: Antispasmodics: Help to minimize muscle spasms in the intestines.
Depending on the primary symptoms (constipation or diarrhea), laxatives or anti-diarrheal medications may be prescribed. Low doses of certain antidepressants can help alleviate IBS-related pain and stress. Specific IBS Medication: Newer medications, such as linaclotide (for constipation) and eluxadoline (for diarrhea), are occasionally utilized.
- Stress Management: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness-based stress reduction can all help to alleviate stress-related IBS symptoms.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes healthy bowel motions and relieves stress.
Conclusion
IBS is a persistent digestive illness characterized by symptoms like discomfort, bloating, and changed bowel patterns. IBS is normally managed with a tailored approach that includes food, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication to ease symptoms.