Irritable bowel syndrome

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating
• Diarrhea or constipation, or a combination of both
• Changes in bowel movements, such as needing to go to the bathroom urgently or having stools that are hard or difficult to pass
• Mucus in the stool
• A feeling of not being able to completely empty the bowel after a bowel movement

Causes

The exact cause of IBS is not known, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors, including:

• Abnormal muscle contractions in the colon: In people with IBS, the muscles of the colon may contract more strongly or for longer periods of time than normal, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements.
• Problems with the immune system: Some research suggests that people with IBS may have an abnormal immune response to infections or inflammation in the gut, which can lead to symptoms.
• Changes in the balance of bacteria in the gut: The gut contains a complex community of bacteria, and an imbalance of these bacteria (called dysbiosis) may contribute to the development of IBS.
• Stress: Stress and other psychological factors can worsen IBS symptoms.
• Diet: Certain foods or drinks, such as alcohol, caffeine, or foods high in fat or fiber, can trigger or worsen IBS symptoms.
• Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut and trigger IBS symptoms.

Risk factors

Some known risk factors for developing IBS include:

• Age: IBS is more common in people under the age of 50.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop IBS than men.
• Family history: People with a family history of IBS are more likely to develop the condition.
• Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression have been linked to the development of IBS.
• Previous infection: A history of gastroenteritis (an infection of the stomach and intestines) may increase the risk of developing IBS.
• Other conditions: People with certain other conditions, such as fibromyalgia (a condition that causes widespread pain and fatigue) or chronic fatigue syndrome (a condition characterized by extreme tiredness), may be more likely to develop IBS.

Complications

Although IBS is a chronic condition that can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily activities, it does not cause permanent damage to the colon or increase the risk of other diseases. However, IBS can lead to some complications, such as:

• Poor quality of life: IBS can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, as the symptoms can be disruptive and embarrassing.
• Dehydration: Diarrhea and vomiting, which can be symptoms of IBS, can cause dehydration if not properly managed.
• Malnutrition: Chronic diarrhea or constipation can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from food, leading to malnutrition.
• Rectal bleeding: Although rare, IBS can occasionally cause rectal bleeding.

Other conditions: Some people with IBS may also develop other conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or other functional gastrointestinal disorders.

How to diagnose

There is no specific test for IBS, and the condition is usually diagnosed based on a combination of factors, including:

• Medical history: A healthcare professional will ask about your symptoms, diet, and any other relevant medical conditions.
• Physical examination: A healthcare professional will perform a physical examination, including a rectal examination, to check for any abnormalities.
• Lab tests: Lab tests, such as a blood test or stool sample, may be done to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
• Diagnostic criteria: IBS is diagnosed based on the Rome criteria, which is a set of guidelines that healthcare professionals use to diagnose functional gastrointestinal disorders like IBS. The Rome criteria require the presence of certain symptoms, such as abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements, for a certain period of time.

How to prevent

There is no known way to prevent IBS, but there are some things that may help reduce the risk of developing the condition or reduce the severity of symptoms, including:

• Eating a healthy diet: A diet that is high in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce the risk of IBS.
• Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help prevent dehydration, which can worsen IBS symptoms.
• Reducing stress: Stress can worsen IBS symptoms, so finding ways to manage stress, such as through relaxation techniques or counseling, may help prevent or reduce the severity of IBS symptoms.
• Avoiding triggers: Identifying and avoiding foods or activities that trigger IBS symptoms may help prevent or reduce the severity of symptoms.
• Exercising regularly: Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of IBS and improve symptoms.

When you need to see a doctor

It's important to speak with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing any symptoms of IBS, as they can be caused by other conditions as well. You should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain that is severe or persistent
• Rectal bleeding
• Unintended weight loss
• Symptoms that interfere with daily activities

FAQs