Irritable Bowel Syndrome
It is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Although not life threatening, IBS can lead to other colon related disorders such as Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease or Colon Cancer. IBS is also known as irritable colon, mucous colitis and spastic colitis.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
Symptoms of IBS differ from one person to another in terms of severity & duration. Symptoms generally tend to last for a minimum of 3 months occurring at least 3 days per month.
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Cramps in the abdomen, which tend to get worse after meals & are reduced after a bowel movement
- Gas or Bloating
People with IBS may also have episodes of both diarrhoea & constipation. Women tend to present more symptoms around the time of menstruation. Menopausal women have fewer symptoms.
What are the risk factors of IBS?
- Muscle Contractions: Muscles in the intestines contract as food moves through the digestive tract. Stronger contractions that last longer can cause gas, bloating and diarrhoea. Weak contractions slow food passage & lead to hard stools.
- Nervous System: Abnormalities in the nerves in digestive system can cause body to overreact to changes resulting from the digestive process leading to pain, diarrhoea or constipation.
- Inflammation in the intestines: Certain patients tend to have increased quantity of immune system cells in their intestines, which is associated with pain & diarrhoea
- Severe infection: IBS may also develop due to surplus bacteria in the intestine or after a severe bout of diarrhoea.
How is IBS diagnosed?
The following tests may be recommended to diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy
- Upper Endoscopy
- X Rays
- Blood Tests
- Stool Tests
- Tests for lactose intolerance, gluten allergy or celiac disease
Can it be prevented?
- Manage stress with the help of counselling, psychotherapy or guided meditation
- Progressive relaxation exercises can help you relax muscles in your body.
How is it treated?
IBS treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Certain lifestyle modifications such as the following can help:
- Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms
- Eat foods rich in fibre
- Drink lots of fluids
- Have an exercise routine
- Get enough sleep
- Avoid foods that cause gas or bloating
- Avoid gluten
- Fibre Supplements
- Laxatives
- Anti diarrhoea medications
- Antidepressants
- Pain medications
Apart from lifestyle changes, your doctor may recommend the following medications based on your symptoms:
