Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems or digestive disease. It is characterized by colicky abdominal pain and an increased frequency of bowel movement. the condition often develops in adolescence or young adulthood, and often flares up during times of stress.
What causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome is known as a functional disorder because no underlying cause for it has been identified. Peristalsis, the movement of digested food through the intestines, occurs as the result of rhythmical muscular contractions. In some people with IBS, the contractions are irregular and abnormally strong.
In others the contractions may be normal, or may be exaggerated, rather than abnormal. There may be spasms of pain and an excess or decrease of fluid inside the bowel.
How is Irritable Bowel Syndrome diagnosed and treated?
In those who are under 35 and in generally good health (apart from IBS), diagnosis is likely to be based on symptoms alone.
Tests may be necessary to rule out other disorders with similar symptoms, such as an inflammatory bowel disorder (Crohn’s disease, for example), or certain types of gastrointestinal cancer.
These tests may include rectal examination, sigmoidoscopy (in which a viewing device is used to examine the rectum and part of the large intestine), and barium x-rays (which provide an image of the digestive tract).
Occasionally, a colonoscopy (in which the main part of the large intestine is examined with a viewing device) may be carried out.
Such tests are essential in older people as the risk of more serious diseases with similar symptoms increases with age.
Treatment aims to minimize discomfort and to reestablish a normal pattern of bowel movements. Your doctor will counsel you on diet and lifestyle and may prescribe medications to add bulk to your stool.
For severely painful episodes, other drugs may be prescribed to reduce intestinal spasm.
What can I do myself?
A variety of lifestyle measures can help to regulate the bowels. Some suggestions include:
- Keep a diary to identify the lifestyle factors that trigger attacks.
- Take regular exercise.
- Avoid excessive tea, coffee and alcohol.
- If flatulence is a problem, avoid beans, cabbage, and any other foods which may trigger intestinal gas.
- Some doctors recommend a high-fibre diet, although there is no established link between high fibre and gastrointestinal disorders.
Those who wish to try this should obtain their fibre from vegetables, rice, fruit, and so on, rather than bran, which may worsen the condition. If a high-fibre diet does not help, or makes it worse, a bland diet may help.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a highly variable disorder which affects individuals differently. So, it is important to identify, and then avoid foods or activities that may worsen your condition. Since the primary treatment for the disease is a change in lifestyle, rather than medication, you need to learn more about your bowel’s response to your habits.
For example, some people may find they react badly to certain foods. Sometimes, simply eating smaller meals can help.
Since tension often worsens the disorder, relaxation therapy or psychotherapy can help you cope better with stress. Self-hypnosis has been of benefit to some people.
When should I see my doctor?
You should report any persistent deviation in your bowel habit to your doctor. If you are already under treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, call your doctor if you experience any prolonged change or worsening of your symptoms, or pass blood in the stools.
Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome dangerous?
No, but sufferers can experience some amount of discomfort.
Symptoms of IBS
- Absence of a regular pattern of bowel movements.
- Frequent diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating bouts of each.
- Bloating or swollen abdomen.
- Abdominal pain and/or cramps.
- Excessive gas or flatulence.
- Related symptoms may include fatigue, depression and anxiety.
How can I avoid Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
- A high-fibre diet which promotes efficient bowel function may help to prevent the symptoms.
- When you know you are likely to be under extra stress, special attention to diet, exercise and relaxation may be able to help, or supplementary medication may be necessary
- Avoid over-eating and eating at irregular hours
Warning / Precaution
Any persistent change in bowel habit should be checked by a doctor, as this may be a warning symptom of colon cancer. In fact, for a more cautious approach, any symptoms of pain or cramp associated with change of bowel habit should be consulted with a doctor immediately.
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