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Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Symptoms, Types, Causes, and Treatment Options

Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD

Medically reviewed by Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD, Harvard Medical School | Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit, MI on January 15th, 2024.

Key Takeaways

  • 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.

Types of IBS

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

Symptoms of IBS

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.

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Symptoms, Types, Causes, and Treatment Options

Causes of IBS

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

Diagnosing IBS

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.

Treatment Options for IBS

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:

Lifestyle Changes

  • Identifying and avoiding trigger foods

  • Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fiber

  • Staying hydrated

  • Exercising regularly

  • Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy

Medications

  • 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

Psychological Therapies

  • 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

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.

Additional Resources

The Bottom Line

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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