An IBS disorder is a common digestive system condition characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, affecting between 10% and 20% of people worldwide.
What is an IBS Disorder?
Irritable bowel is defined as a chronic functional disorder of the large intestine, meaning the intestines may appear structurally normal but do not function correctly. This condition is characterized by bouts of diarrhea, constipation, or an alternation between the two, accompanied by bloating and gas. It is noted that this disorder is twice as prevalent in women as in men.
Causes of IBS
There is no single specific cause for this condition, but doctors believe a combination of factors interacts to trigger its onset, including:
- Muscle movement dysfunction: Strong or prolonged contractions of the intestinal muscles cause diarrhea and gas, while weak contractions slow the movement of food, leading to constipation.
- The nervous system: Poor coordination of signals between the brain and the gut, or increased sensitivity of nerve endings in the digestive tract, which can make a person feel pain from small gas bubbles.
- Environmental and health factors: Severe bacterial or viral infections (gastroenteritis) or an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines.
- Mental health and microbes: Exposure to psychological stress and tension during childhood, or changes in the microbes (bacteria and fungi) that naturally live in the gut.
Common Symptoms of Irritable Bowel
Signs vary from person to person but usually persist for a long time, most notably:
- Abdominal pain: Cramps or colic often concentrated in the lower abdomen, which tend to improve after bowel movements or passing gas.
- Changes in excretion: An increase or decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, with changes in the shape and consistency of the stool.
- Bloating: A feeling of fullness as if the stomach is “inflated,” accompanied by excessive gas.
- Additional signs: The appearance of white mucus in the stool, a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying, constant fatigue, and sleep difficulties such as insomnia.
For women, these symptoms may worsen during menstruation due to hormonal fluctuations, and there may be a higher likelihood of experiencing the constipation-predominant type.
Treatment Options for IBS Disorder
Managing the condition often relies on trial and error to find an effective strategy, including:
- Lifestyle adjustments: Adhering to a balanced diet and avoiding stress.
- Medications: These include antispasmodics, antidepressants, medications to relieve diarrhea or constipation, and probiotic products (beneficial bacteria).
- Specific treatments: Rifaximin is used for a short period to reduce symptoms, especially bloating, although it is not approved as a long-term treatment for this disorder.
- Psychological support: Psychotherapy and relaxation techniques may be utilized.
When to See a Doctor?
You should consult a doctor if you notice a change in bowel frequency, especially if “alarm symptoms” appear that may indicate more serious conditions such as colon cancer, including:
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
- Diarrhea that occurs at night.
- Iron-deficiency anemia.
- Vomiting of unknown cause.
- Abdominal pain that does not resolve after bowel movements or passing gas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do IBS symptoms last?
The disorder is defined as abdominal pain or discomfort associated with changes in bowel habits for a period of at least three months; it is a chronic condition requiring long-term management.
Does an irritable bowel cause serious diseases?
IBS does not increase the risk of developing serious conditions such as colon cancer or ulcerative colitis.
What are the common triggers for symptoms?
Triggers vary between individuals, but common ones include fatty and fried foods, dairy products, gluten (wheat and barley), garlic, onions, and fruits rich in fructose.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor to diagnose your condition and determine the appropriate treatment.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team