Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal discomfort or pain and altered bowel habits in the absence of any structural abnormalities. It is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions, affecting both men and women, with a higher prevalence in females.

Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis:

The symptoms of IBS vary widely among individuals but commonly include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping: Often relieved after a bowel movement.
• Altered bowel habits: Includes diarrhea (IBS-D), constipation (IBS-C), or alternating diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M).
• Bloating and gas: A frequent feeling of fullness or bloating.
• Mucus in stools: Some people with IBS notice whitish mucus in their stool.
• Urgency and incomplete evacuation: The need to rush to the toilet or feeling that the bowels are not completely emptied.

Causes

The exact cause of IBS is not well understood, but it is thought to result from a combination of factors:

• Gut-brain interaction: Disturbances in the communication between the brain and the gut may lead to altered bowel motility and heightened sensitivity.
• Gut microbiome imbalances: Changes in the composition of gut bacteria may play a role.
• Infections or inflammation: A history of gastrointestinal infections or low-grade inflammation can contribute.
• Stress and psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression are often linked to IBS symptoms.
• Food triggers: Certain foods like dairy, gluten, spicy foods, and caffeine can exacerbate symptoms.

Treatment

While there is no cure for IBS, a combination of dietary, lifestyle, and medical interventions can effectively manage symptoms:

Dietary modifications:

• Low FODMAP diet: Reducing fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols.
• Increased fiber intake: Helpful in IBS-C; however, soluble fiber like psyllium is preferred over insoluble fiber.

Medications:

• Antispasmodics (e.g., dicyclomine) for pain relief.
• Laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol) for constipation.
• Anti-diarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide) for diarrhea.
• Probiotics to improve gut microbiota balance.

Stress management:

• Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).