by Jeannette Payne

Created on: May 10, 2011   Last Updated: May 11, 2011

Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS, is a disorder whose cause remains unknown. It is characterized by specific symptoms and although it can make life very stressful and painful, it does not lead to life threatening illnesses or other more complicated illnesses.

As of today, IBS is one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders, affecting 20% of the adult American population. It occurs more often in women than in men, and usually starts before the age of 35.

General Symptoms of IBS

There are many symptoms of IBS and they change between individuals in type and severity. They also may seem contradictory to each other but they all relate. The most common symptoms of the condition include the following:

• Abdominal pain;
• Bloating;
• Discomfort in the abdominal area;
• Constipation or diarrhea, or a combination of both;
• Straining and cramping before or during a bowel movement;
• Mucus around or in the stools;
• Incontrollable urgency for bowel movements;
• Symptoms may subside and return, or they may worsen over time.

Other possible symptoms include a full feeling in the abdomen, an early feeling of fullness when eating, heartburn and nausea. There may be the feeling that the bowels have not emptied properly. IBS sufferers may also experience muscle pain, sleep disturbances, sexual dysfunction as well as fatigue. Pain in the lower back and headaches may accompany these symptoms.

Patterns of Symptoms of IBS

The pain associated with IBS is located in the abdomen, which is the area below the chest and above the hips. It may be located more on one side than the other. This pain, discomfort or other symptoms relate to the bowel movements. Usually the pain and cramping or discomfort goes along with a change in bowel movement. Some of the symptoms occur at the same time. They may occur over a longer period of time but they may come and go if they are triggered by certain foods or life events. These symptoms tend to be relieved after a bowel movement.

Contributing Factors to IBS

Although doctors and scientists do not fully understand IBS, there are certain triggers that may pertain to the condition in specific cases. Such contributing factors or triggers include diet, medications, hormones, and stress. Individuals including caffeine or other stimulants in their diet, taking certain medications, going through various stressful times in their life, or experiencing hormonal changes may feel a worsening in their symptoms.

Diagnosis

There is no specific test for IBS. The doctors have the patient undergo various tests to rule out other possible causes. When there is no other specific cause, this may be the diagnosis. However, the doctor will also take other things into consideration such as family medical history.

Treatment

There are treatments for this condition that reduce the severity or prevent altogether the symptoms of IBS. Different methods help different people. Fiber supplements or laxatives can help those who experience constipation while Imodium and other similar medicines can assist those with diarrhea. Some individuals are placed on anti-anxiety medications if stress is their trigger.

Diet changes are also usually implemented. Patients are to avoid dairy, caffeine, sugars, wheat products, and other similar food items. They are also advised not to eat large meals.

Getting Help

Many people go through life without having IBS treated and they suffer for it. Life doesn’t have to be this way. There are treatments and it is important that anyone experiencing these symptoms consult a doctor.

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