Irritable bowel syndrome

Health Pages- Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition of the digestive systems. Its primary symptoms are abdominal pain and altered bowl habits (eg , constipation /and or diarrhea) but these symptoms have no identifiable cause.

IBS is the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal condition and is second only to the common cold as a cause of absence from work. An estimated 10 to 20 percent of people experience symptoms of IBS , although only about 15 percent of affected people actually seek medical help.

Despite intensive research, the cause is not clear. Various theories are abnormal contractions of the colon and intestines, post infective, food intolerances. Stress and anxiety are known to affect the intestine and may worsen symptoms.

Heightened sensitivity of the intestines to normal sensations may be the cause  ie normal amounts of gas or movement are perceived as excessive and painful.

Young adults are often the sufferers. The most common symptom of IBS is  abdominal
 Pain in association with diarrhoea and /or constipation

Pain is typically crampy and may worsen with emotional stress,eating. Bowel movement may relieve the pain.




Altered bowel habits are a second symptom of IBS including diarrhoea constipation, or alternating diarrhoea and constipation. About one-half of people with IBS also notice mucous discharge with diarrhoea . The constipation of IBS can be with hard and pellet-shaped tools. You may not feel empty after a bowel movement,even when the rectum is empty. Bloating,gas,and belching may also be seen.

IBS may mimic several intestinal disorders.There is no single diagnostic test and it is a diagnosis of exclusion. Be careful if you have blood in stool or urine,frequent vomiting,fever or loss of appetite or weight as these symptoms are unusual in IBS.

Most clinicians order routine blood tests. Some may need more invasive tests such as endoscopy or colonoscopy .

Treatment is a long process. Monitoring the symptoms,daily bowel habits,can help to identify factors that worsen symptoms. Any specific diet constituents e.g.milk which is sent to aggravate symptoms may be avoided.

Several treatments and therapies are available for IBS. These measures help alleviate symptoms,but do not cure the condition. The chronic nature Of IBS and the challenge of controlling its symptoms can be frustrating for both patients and healthcare providers.

Increasing dietary fiber may help especially with constipation.

An open discussion with your doctor ,family,and friends may help identify any role of stress and anxiety. Formal counseling with or without medication ,other treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy may be of help. Daily exercise can have a favorable effect on the bowels and provide a sense of well being in addition to the physiological benefits.

Medication including anticholinergics,antidepressants,anti diarrheal drugs etc may be indicated,but should only be taken after seeking medical advice.
It is important to have regular follow up with your doctor especially if symptoms change overtime.

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source Dr vijay