Spastic colon, known medically as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), is a painful and sometimes embarrassing condition that affects the intestinal tract. One in five Americans is affected by the disorder, which affects more women than men, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). Although there is no cure for IBS, treatment is available to relieve and reduce symptoms.
Symptoms
IBS symptoms include pain, bloating and discomfort in the abdomen. Bowel movements may be affected; some people experience bouts of diarrhea, while others have a problem with constipation. Alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation can also occur. Changes in the appearance and frequency of bowel movements may occur, and mucus may appear in the stool. Symptoms can worsen over time or subside for a few months, only to return again.
Causes
Although it affects the way the intestinal system functions, IBS is not caused by a disease or serious problem with the intestinal tract. IBS may be caused by a problem with muscle movement in the intestine or by a lower tolerance for stretching and movement of the intestine, according to MedLine Plus. The condition may also occur as a reaction to stress and certain foods.
Diagnosis
An IBS diagnosis is made based on symptoms, a physical examination and a patient's medical history. No specific test can diagnose IBS, but doctors may recommend testing of the colon to rule out other problems that could be causing symptoms. IBS may be diagnosed if abdominal pain or discomfort was present for at least 12 weeks out of the previous year and was accompanied by two out of three accompanying symptoms. The accompanying symptoms include a change in the frequency of bowel movements, a change in the appearance of stool or pain relieved by having a bowel movement, according to the NDDIC.
Treatment
Antispasmodics may be helpful in reducing abdominal pain caused by muscle spasms, and laxatives and fiber supplements may relieve constipation and diarrhea. Some people find relief from symptoms by taking antidepressants. If constipation worsens, medication to relax intestinal muscles is prescribed. The prescription medication alosetron hydrochloride may be prescribed to treat severe diarrhea due to IBS.
Lifestyle Changes
Stress can trigger or worsen symptoms. Exercising regularly and using stress-reduction techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can be helpful in relieving symptoms caused by stress. Eating frequent small meals during the day can result in fewer symptoms, as can increasing fiber in the diet. Avoiding foods known to trigger symptoms can reduce flare-ups.
