Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Introduction/Overview
Every day many people who have gastrointestinal symptoms are asking the question: What is irritable bowel syndrome? That’s because irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common disorders of the large intestine. It presents itself with diarrhea or constipation, gas, cramps, bloating and pain in the abdominal area. Irritable bowel syndrome is an uncomfortable condition but it does not damage the bowels.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms include feeling bloated, having gas, abdominal cramps and/or pain, stools with mucus, and diarrhea, constipation or both. If you have a combination of these symptoms, see your doctor. He or she will want to do tests to rule out more serious diseases, such as colon cancer. A diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is based on a special diagnostic criteria for bowel conditions. To be diagnosed with IBS, you must have had abdominal pain for three months and two of the following: changes in stools from soft to hard and vice-versa, inability to empty bowels, straining, stools with mucus, bloating, or a distended abdomen. Further tests will be done if you have additional problems, such as losing weight, vomiting, rectal bleeding, fever, or severe diarrhea. These tests might include a colonoscopy, CT scan, flexible sigmoidoscopy, or blood and lactose intolerance tests.
Known Causes
The exact causes of irritable bowel syndrome are not known. Food may pass through your colon too fast or even too slowly. Certain foods may bother more than others. If milk products cause the symptoms, you may have lactose intolerance and not irritable bowel syndrome. Stress is a big cause of IBS. Hormones are also thought be a trigger in women.
Treatments/Procedures
While there is really no cure, a diet for irritable bowel syndrome can help relieve symptoms. Foods which cause gas and bloating should be eliminated. That includes salads, raw fruits and vegetables, especially cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage. Carbonated beverages should be avoided. There are several medications for IBS, including anticholinergics for bowel spasms and antidepressants for depression and pain. Some people may benefit from antibiotics while others should seek counseling for stress.
Prevention / Vaccination
When you have irritable bowel syndrome, worrying and stress can bring on bouts of diarrhea and other symptoms. You need to find new ways to deal with stress, such as practicing deep breathing or doing other relaxation exercises.
Prognosis / Management
Often, all it takes is a few changes in lifestyle to manage irritable bowel syndrome. You can try to increase the amount of fiber you eat. Stay away from beverages with caffeine and foods, such as chocolate, which can worsen symptoms. Fatty foods and those with milk products should only be consumed in limited quantities in an irritable bowel syndrome diet. If you have constipation or diarrhea, you can take laxatives and anti-diarrheals respectively.
Alternative Treatments & Products
There are several alternative treatments for irritable bowel syndrome. These include herbs, probiotics, hypnosis and herbs. You can relieve stress by meditating, taking a yoga class, or exercising regularly.