Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Know in Depth
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects about 200,000 persons in the US each year. IBS is more common in women (women account for almost two-thirds of all diagnoses), although it can affect person at any age, including children. It's categorized as a regular gastrointestinal condition that can be treated but is not curable. Although many people don't know what causes IBS, the majority of cases are detected by symptom assessment. Depending on the individual circumstances of each patient, symptom severity might range from minor to severe.
Let's delve a little deeper into the subject of IBS.
This is a condition in which the intestines become inflamed.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a gastrointestinal illness marked by a cluster of digestive symptoms. IBS differs from inflammatory bowel disease in that it is not classed as a "disease," it does not increase the risk of colon cancer, and it cannot be diagnosed using colon diagnostic imaging.
“Spastic colon,” “irritable colon,” and “mucous colitis” are all names used to describe IBS. The immediate signs that persist for at least 3 months are used to get an IBS diagnosis. IBS can cause irreparable intestinal damage in rare circumstances.
What are the signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
IBS symptoms differ by gender and range in severity from mild to severe, however they usually include:
Pain in the abdomen
Cramping
Gas
Bloating
Diarrhea
Constipation
Bowel habit change
A change in the way your bowels look
IBS patients may suffer a mix of these symptoms, with some lasting a long time and others appearing and disappearing over time. Certain symptoms in women, such as abdominal pain, tend to get worse in the menstrual cycle and can even get worse in pregnancy.
IBS is diagnosed in a variety of ways.
An in-depth symptom evaluation with your gastroenterologist is the most usual technique to diagnose IBS. Your doctor may also recommend that you adjust your diet, going through a colonoscopy, blood culture, or a stool sample taken in addition to understanding your symptoms.
Are there any foods or factors that aggravate the symptoms of IBS?
When you're diagnosed with IBS, you're generally told to avoid triggers that can make your symptoms worse. Food can be a trigger, but so can emotional and mental stress, both of which can harm your gut health.
The following are the most common causes of IBS flare-ups:
Excessive anxiety
Anxiety
Depression
Some drugs
Consuming food too quickly
Not exercising on a regular basis
Gum chewing
Foods that are fried, oily, or heavy in fat
Consumption of a high-fiber diet
carbonated beverages
Meals that are substantial
Chocolate
Alcohol
Caffeine
Listening to your body is the greatest method to figure out which foods and conditions are causing your IBS to worsen. Reduce your anxiety and stress levels by focusing on healthy foods that will fuel your body.
What are the options for IBS treatment?
There is currently no cure for IBS. There are, however, some lifestyle adjustments that can help to reduce the severity and occurrence of your symptoms, such as:
Exercising on a regular basis
Eating right
Reducing stress
Taking probiotic supplements
Stay away from foods and drinks that fuel your intestines, such as fatty foods and caffeine.
If lifestyle modifications aren't enough to relieve the symptoms, a doctor may recommend drugs to help. Anti-diarrheal medication, tricyclic antidepressants, gas relief, and over-the-counter pain relievers are some of the drug alternatives available, depending on the patient's individual needs and symptoms.
If you or someone you know is frequently suffering IBS symptoms, it's important to see a gastroenterologist for a thorough examination and diagnosis, as well as a specific treatment plan to relieve signs as quickly as possible. Ask us at Digestive Disease Specialists for the same.
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.
