What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic bowel disorder that affects the stomach and intestines. IBS manifests with abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation or both.
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The specific cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown, however research continues to help doctors better understand and treat the condition. There are certain factors that appear to play a role, including:
- Muscle contractions in the intestine.
- Issues with the nerves in your digestive system.
- Severe diarrhea caused by bacteria or a virus.
- High stress, especially in childhood.
- Changes in gut microbes.
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
There are four common symptoms felt by those experiencing IBS. Symptoms of abdominal discomfort or pain associated with altered bowel habits must be present for at least three days per month in the previous three months for an IBS diagnosis. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Bloating
Depending on bowel habits, there are three different types of IBS:
- IBS with constipation (IBD-C)
- IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)
- IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)
Diagnosing Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Diagnosing IBS is generally done through multiple methods. Your healthcare provider will take a detailed health history and ask you about symptoms you experience. Lab testing may be performed to check for infection or anemia, CT of the abdomen to obtain a view of your bowel and/or endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy or small bowel capsule to view and take biopsies of your bowel.
Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Even though the cause of IBS is hard to pin down, there are several treatment options available depending on the symptoms that someone is experiencing and their level of discomfort. Mild symptoms can often be controlled by managing stress and making changes to your diet and lifestyle.