Medically reviewed by Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD, Harvard Medical School | Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit, MI on January 15th, 2024.
Three main subtypes exist: IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant), IBS-C (constipation-predominant), and IBS-M (mixed), with symptoms typically occurring at least 3 days per month for 3+ months.
The low-FODMAP diet eliminates fermentable carbohydrates like garlic, onions, and wheat for 2-6 weeks, reducing symptoms in up to 75% of patients when properly implemented.
Women are twice as likely to develop the condition as men, with hormonal fluctuations during menstruation often triggering symptom flares.
Antispasmodic medications like dicyclomine (10-20mg before meals) and peppermint oil capsules (0.2mL three times daily) can reduce abdominal cramping by 40-50%.
Stress directly affects gut-brain communication through the vagus nerve, explaining why anxiety, depression, and major life changes commonly precede symptom onset.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by a combination of abdominal discomfort or pain and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two. While IBS can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life, it is not life-threatening and does not increase the risk of more serious conditions like colon cancer.
There are four main types of IBS:
IBS with constipation (IBS-C)
IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)
Mixed IBS (IBS-M), which alternates between constipation and diarrhea
Unsubtyped IBS (IBS-U), for those who don't fit into the above categories
The most common symptoms of IBS include:
Abdominal pain or cramping, usually in the lower abdomen
Bloating and gas
Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two
Mucus in the stool
Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
Symptoms may vary from person to person and can be triggered by certain foods, stress, or other factors. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, or if you notice any "red flag" symptoms like rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or fever, it's important to consult with your doctor.
The exact cause of IBS is not known, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:
Abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines
Nervous system abnormalities
Inflammation in the intestines
Changes in gut bacteria
Genetics
Food sensitivities or intolerances
Stress and psychological factors
There is no single test to diagnose IBS. Your doctor will likely review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam. They may also order tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or colon cancer. These tests may include blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies like a colonoscopy.
While there is no cure for IBS, there are several treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include:
Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fiber
Staying hydrated
Exercising regularly
Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy
Antispasmodics to reduce abdominal pain and cramping
Laxatives or anti-diarrheal medications to regulate bowel movements
Antidepressants to help with pain and psychological symptoms
Antibiotics to treat bacterial overgrowth in the gut
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Hypnotherapy
Mindfulness-based stress reduction
Your doctor can help you develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and needs. It may take some trial and error to find the right combination of treatments that work for you.
Living with IBS can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. In addition to working with your doctor to find the right treatment plan, consider the following tips:
Keep a food and symptom diary to identify triggers
Plan ahead for social events or travel
Practice stress-management techniques like deep breathing or meditation
Join a support group or seek counseling if needed
Remember, you are not alone in your struggle with IBS. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to live a full and active life with this condition.
Most people achieve significant symptom relief through a combination of dietary elimination (particularly FODMAPs), targeted medications, and stress management techniques. The key is identifying your personal triggers through systematic tracking of foods, stress levels, and bowel patterns. If you're experiencing persistent abdominal pain with bowel changes, Doctronic can help you determine if these symptoms warrant further evaluation.
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