Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of intestinal movement and sensation. Irritable bowel does not cause inflammation or permanent harm, or progress to more serious conditions.

Causes

The cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not known. The colon normally contracts in response to eating. With Irritable Bowel Syndrome the muscles in the colon do not function normally and may spasm.
Possible reasons for this malfunction include:
  • A colon that is more sensitive than normal and reacts more strongly to food, medication, and other factors
  • Larger meals or fatty foods (in susceptible people)
  • Gas
  • Caffeine (in susceptible people)
  • Alcohol (in susceptible people)
The following may worsen symptoms of IBS:
  • Stress
  • Emotional conflict
  • Menstrual periods

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition.
  • Sex: Female
  • Family members with IBS
  • Sexual abuse
  • Domestic violence

Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms usually come and go. Symptoms range in intensity from mild to severe.
Symptoms include:
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Gas
  • Bloating
  • Pain that resolves with a bowel movement
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Both diarrhea and constipation
  • Loose stools
  • Urge to move bowels but no stool is passed
  • Urge to move bowels after having a bowel movement
  • Mucus in the stool

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical and rectal exam.
Tests may include:
  • Analysis of a stool sample to check for blood
  • Blood tests
  • X-rays
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy - a thin, lighted tube inserted into the rectum to examine the rectum and the lower colon
  • Colonoscopy - a thin, lighted tube inserted through the rectum and into the colon to examine the lining of the colon
  • Other tests to rule out other medical conditions

Treatment

There is no treatment to cure IBS. Treatment focuses on managing the condition by reducing the frequency of symptoms.
Therapies include:
Dietary Changes
  • Keep a food diary, listing what you eat and what the reaction is. Discuss the findings with your doctor or a dietitian.
  • Make gradual changes to your diet and record the results.
  • Avoid foods that have provoked symptoms more than once. A dietitian can help you choose substitutes for offending foods.
  • Avoid the following foods and drinks that may provoke symptoms:
    • High-fat foods
    • Spicy foods
    • Dairy products
    • Onions
    • Cabbage
    • Other gas-producing foods
    • Large amounts of alcohol or caffeine
  • Eat foods that may reduce the chance of spasm, such as:
    • Fruits and vegetables
    • Whole grains and other high-fiber foods (Note: More fiber may increase gas and bloating until your body adjusts.)
  • Eat smaller meals more often or smaller portions.
  • Eat slowly and try not to swallow air.
  • Drink more water to help reduce constipation.
Stress Management
Techniques to reduce stress include:
  • Stress management techniques
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Biofeedback
  • Counseling to help develop coping skills
  • Exercise (also improves bowel function)
Medication
The doctor may recommend:
  • A fiber supplement
  • Medications to reduce spasms, cramping and diarrhea
  • Antidepressants

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing IBS because the cause is unknown.