Over 200,000 people are diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) each year in the United States. IBS is more common among women (about 2 in 3 of every diagnosis is women) but can affect anyone at any age, even children. It is classified as a common gastrointestinal syndrome that can be managed with treatment but is incurable. Although the leading cause of IBS is unknown for many, most cases are professionally diagnosed by symptom evaluation. Symptom severity can range from mild to severe based on each patient’s unique case.
Let’s dive a little deeper into understanding IBS.
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by a group of intestinal symptoms occurring together. Like inflammatory bowel disease, IBS differs as it is not classified as a “disease,” doesn’t increase colon cancer risk, and cannot be detected through diagnostic imaging of the colon.
IBS is often referred to by other terms such as “spastic colon,” “irritable colon,” or “mucous colitis.” The preliminary determination of an IBS diagnosis is the simultaneous symptoms that occur for at least three months, lasting three or more days per month. In rare cases, IBS can cause irreversible intestinal damage.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
Symptoms of IBS vary by gender and can range in pain level from mild to severe but commonly include:
Abdominal pain
Cramping
Bloating
Gas
Constipation
Diarrhea
A change in your bowel habits
A change in the appearance of your bowels
People with IBS can experience a combination of these symptoms, with ones lasting a while and others coming and going throughout a specific timeframe. For women, certain symptoms, like abdominal pain and diarrhea tend to worsen during their menstrual cycle and can become worse during pregnancy.
How is IBS diagnosed?
The most common way to diagnose IBS is through an in-depth symptom review with your doctor. In addition to understanding symptoms, your doctor may also request that you change your diet, have a colonoscopy, bloodwork, or stool sample completed.
Are there specific foods or factors that increase IBS symptoms?
As part of an IBS diagnosis, you are often asked to avoid triggers that can cause symptoms to worsen. Some triggers include food, while others include mental and emotional loads that can damage your gut health.
The most common flare-ups for IBS come from things like:
Excessive stress
Anxiety
Depression
Certain medications (antibiotics, some antidepressants)
Eating too quickly
Not exercising regularly
Chewing gum
Fried, greasy or high-fat foods
A high fiber consumption diet
carbonated drinks
Large meals
Chocolate
Alcohol
Caffeine
The best way to understand the foods and factors that can cause your IBS to worsen is to listen to your body. Reduce stress and anxiety in your life and focus on wholesome foods that nourish your body.
What treatment is available for IBS?
Currently, there is no cure for IBS. However, there are lifestyle changes that can decrease the intensity and frequency of your symptoms, including:
Exercising regularly
Eating smaller meals throughout the day
Minimizing stress
Taking probiotics
Avoiding foods and drinks that may stimulate your intestines, like caffeine and fatty foods
If lifestyle changes don’t help alleviate your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications to help provide some relief. Medication options vary by a patient’s specific needs and symptoms but may include anti-diarrheal medication, gas relief, tricyclic antidepressants, or OTC pain relief options.
If you or someone you know are experiencing symptoms of IBS frequently, it is best to visit a gastroenterologist to review your symptoms in more detail for a prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to alleviate symptoms as quickly and efficiently as possible.