IBS

IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome) is a common condition characterized by abdominal discomfort associated with altered bowel movements. Many of the symptoms of IBS are related to hypersensitivity of the nerves found in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. These nerves are distinct from those in your spinal cord and brain.

There are four subcategories of IBS: (1) Mostly diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. (2) Mostly constipation and abdominal discomfort. (3) Alternating loose stools and constipation with abdominal discomfort. (4) Undefined subtype where the symptoms vary.

The main symptom of IBS is abdominal pain or discomfort associated with a change in your bowel habits. People with IBS may describe the abdominal discomfort in different ways, such as sharp pain, cramping, bloating, distention, fullness or even burning. The pain may be triggered by eating specific foods, following a meal, emotional stress, constipation or diarrhea. Other symptoms include: mucus in stool, urgency, feeling of incomplete evacuation.

Often, stress is associated with the onset of symptoms. The symptoms improve when the stress is gone. Other people may experience random IBS episodes that have no obvious triggers. Still others may have long periods of symptoms, followed by long symptom free periods. Some individuals with IBS are able to tolerate their symptoms very well and go about their regular routine. Others find that their symptoms prevent them from experiencing a full quality of life, even including going to work or doing other important activities.

A doctor diagnoses IBS based solely on the presence of specific symptoms and the patient’s clinical history. There are no laboratory/imaging tests to diagnose IBS. An experienced gastroenterologist can distinguish the classic symptoms of IBS from other symptoms that might prompt an evaluation to exclude other diseases. A person would undergo a comprehensive physical exam. The doctor may diagnose IBS based on the symptoms and history, but will also look for red flags that would suggest the need to look for a different diagnosis such as: unexplained weight loss, anemia, gastrointestinal bleeding, increased pain that can wake you up in the middle of the night, or onset of symptoms passed 50 years of age and older. If you have symptoms of IBS and have a red flag symptom, you will probably need a more complete investigation along with further testing, depending on what your symptoms are.

The goal of treatment for IBS is to provide relief. A person’s exact course of treatment will      depend on the type and severity of the symptoms.

Remember to seek out medical advisement if you are experiencing any new symptoms that are indicative of IBS.

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