Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Here are the key points about IBS:
Definition:
- IBS is a functional bowel disorder affecting the large intestine (colon).
- It’s considered a disorder of gut-brain interaction.
Main symptoms:
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Changes in bowel habits – diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both
- Bloating and gas
- Mucus in stool
Diagnosis:
- Based on symptoms and ruling out other conditions
- No specific test to diagnose IBS
- Doctors use Rome criteria for diagnosis
Causes:
- Exact cause unknown
- Factors may include intestinal muscle contractions, nervous system abnormalities, severe infection, and changes in gut microbes
Risk factors:
- More common in women
- Often develops before age 40
- Family history
- Mental health issues like anxiety or depression
Types:
- IBS with constipation (IBS-C)
- IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)
- Mixed IBS (IBS-M)
Treatment:
- Dietary changes
- Stress management
- Medications to manage specific symptoms
- Probiotics
- Psychological therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy
Outlook:
- Chronic condition requiring long-term management
- Does not increase risk of colorectal cancer or damage the intestines
- Symptoms can be managed effectively for many people
IBS is a complex disorder that can significantly impact quality of life, but with proper management, many people can control their symptoms and lead normal lives.
Citations:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/ibs/digestive-diseases-irritable-bowel-syndrome
[2] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360016
[4] https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes
[5] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4342-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs
[6] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome
[7] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20360064
[8] https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/stomach-liver-and-gastrointestinal-tract/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs/