What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common, chronic condition that affects the gastrointestinal system (GI). Although it does not cause visible harm to the GI tract, it affects the patient’s quality of life and their choice of food. IBS is characterized by various symptoms that differ in severity and frequency.
The exact mechanism that leads to irritable bowel syndrome is not yet well understood; however, several risk factors may affect the gastrointestinal tract, such as:
- Genetic factors
- Age
- Early-life stress
- Severe infections
- Changes in gut microbes
- Motility issues.
Symptoms of IBS
The symptoms of IBS usually persist for a long time. IBS patients suffer from mild, moderate, or severe symptoms. Additionally, IBS symptoms may be similar to other gastrointestinal conditions, making its diagnosis challenging for healthcare providers. Here are some symptoms of IBS :
- Lower abdominal cramps or pain: This is the most common symptom of IBS and it is targeted by food and relieved after passing stool. It can also vary in severity of pain.
- Abdominal bloating and gases: Frequent complaints in IBS.
- Changes in bowel habits: Diarrhea (IBS-D), constipation (IBS-C), or a combination of both.
- Nausea: Especially after eating.
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation.
- Presence of mucus in stool.
- Bowel incontinence: Inability to control bowel movements
- Fatigue and sleeping difficulties.
Triggers of IBS symptoms
- Food
Certain foods can trigger the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as processed foods (e.g. processed meat, cookies), chocolate, fatty meals, caffeinated drinks (e.g. coffee, tea, carbonated drinks), refined grains in bread and cereals, and dairy products (e.g. cheese).
- Stress
Stress and anxiety can exacerbate IBS symptoms. There’s a link between the brain and the gut, and psychological risk factors can affect IBS symptoms, therefore, stress management is essential to control IBS. Methods like meditation, mindfulness, and breathing techniques can be beneficial.
- Medications
Some medications trigger IBS symptoms, such as some antibiotics and antidepressants. IBS patients need to consult their healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- The Menstrual Cycle in Females
Female hormonal changes every month can also worsen the symptoms of IBS, such as bloating and pain.
- Other Triggers
Other triggers include eating too fast, chewing gum, and obesity. Eating too quickly can increase bloating and gas due to air swallowing. Chewing gum can stimulate unneeded digestive enzymes. Obesity can also worsen IBS symptoms by increasing pressure on the intestines and affecting the body’s hormones by the excess presence of fat.
Management of IBS
Management of irritable bowel syndrome does not rely on a single therapeutic approach; however, lifestyle, dietary, and physiological modifications should be considered in all IBS patients. Pharmacological interventions may also be needed in some cases.
A low FODMAP diet may be recommended to relieve symptoms of IBS. It is a temporary diet that limits the intake of certain types of carbohydrates that are hard to digest . Additionally, adequate hydration and regular exercise are important.
Doctors may prescribe supportive medications to some IBS patients, such as laxatives for constipation, anti-diarrheal drugs, or antispasmodic drugs.
Urgent Physician Appointment
An urgent doctor appointment is needed in the following cases, particularly if the patient has a family history of colon or ovarian cancer:
- Persistent change in bowel habits for 6 weeks or longer, especially in the elderly.
- Sudden and unexplained weight loss.
- Unexplained persistent vomiting.
- Bloody diarrhea.
- Abdominal lump or swelling.
- Palpitation or shortness of breath.
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