IBS Symptoms

One of the most debilitating digestive disorders in the Western world is known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Diarrhoea and constipation with bloating and abdomen pain are common symptoms of IBS. For some unknown reason the abdomen pain can be more severe at night time.
IBS is quite a common disorder and it is estimated that about twenty percent of American adults may suffer from it, the majority being women in middle age.
There is no obvious method of identifying IBS. Many general practitioners will determine that IBS is present through a process of elimination and ruling out of other conditions. General practitioners refer to irritable bowel syndrome as a functional disorder because there are no physical symptoms that can be determined. There are many conditions which can now be classed as IBS and were formerly called spatic colon, colon spasms, colitis etc...

So, how are the symptoms of IBS determined?
One of the problems with IBS symptoms is that they can be quite different from person to person. Symptoms may be present for several days at a time, or a week or in some severe cases can last for months. They can flare up at any time, sometimes caused by stress in some people, by allergies, and by a diet change in others. There are various levels of IBS symptoms ranging from mild to quite severe. Severe cases of IBS can have a devastating effect on peoples ability to work and enjoy life.
The general consensus is that if abdominal pain along with some discomfort lasts for a period of 3 months or more then the likelihood is that the patient has irritable bowel syndrome. Other factors include changes in bowel movement frequency or changes in stool formation. Toilet problems such as the feeling of not completing a visit are also well known factors.
To understand IBS, it should be noted that there are many muscles and nerves lining the colon. Sufferers of IBS are inclined to have very sensitive colons which can go into spasm causing pain. Contractions, even though quite small, can cause pain and cramps in the lower abdomen and a build up of gas may occur. Passing wind and belching can relieve the discomfort temporarily. In some people the spasms can cause diarrhoea, while in others it can cause constipation and many complain of alternating between the two conditions.
What Triggers IBS?
However, one of the main causes of IBS is emotional stress, which can cause spasms of the colon. Many items of food can contribute to the discomfort, especially gas producing beans, cabbage, nuts and broccoli. Foods which contain a high level of fat should be avoided. Nicotine may also be a contributing factor. Irritable bowel sufferers may also be affected by anxiety and in some severe cases by depression.
Having IBS is not nearly as bad as many other diseases, and according to the experts it is not life threatening. With proper medical advice and a change of lifestyle, the symptoms can be reduced significantly. This is why it is important to consult a physician if any of the symptoms noted above become persistent.
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