Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is an uncomfortable and not fully understood disease that afflicts about one in five adults, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. IBS can cause pain, bloating and a lot of digestive difficulties. But it doesn't seem to cause permanent damage to the intestines or lead to serious illness. While IBS can't be cured, the symptoms can be controlled.
Symptoms
IBS causes abdominal cramping and bloating, accompanied by a change in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, and usually lasts 12 weeks or more, according to the National Women's Health Information Center. Symptoms vary. Some sufferers have constipation, others diarrhea, and an unfortunate few get bouts of both. Other symptoms include losing control of your bowel movements, feeling you're unable to complete a bowel movement, mucus in the stool, and gas. Women, who are more likely to have IBS, may have more symptoms during their periods.
Causes
Researchers looking for a cause theorize that the colons of people with the disease are unusually sensitive to stress, diet or other factors that trigger symptoms.
People with IBS may also have trouble with the normal movement of the colon that pushes food through the digestive system. This movement can slow down or even stop temporarily, causing constipation. Or it can be too rapid, causing diarrhea. In some cases, IBS may be caused by a bacterial infection or by an inability to properly digest gluten, a substance commonly found in wheat, rye and barley.
Diet
IBS symptoms can be worsened by certain dietary factors including eating large meals, certain medications or by eating wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, dairy products, alcohol or caffeine.
You may want to track your meals and symptoms to figure out what foods trigger problems for you. Sometimes adding dietary fiber by increasing whole grains, fruits and vegetables decreases symptoms, particularly for those with constipation. But too much fiber can cause diarrhea, gas and bloating. You may want to consult a dietician for help designing a diet that works for you. Eating smaller portions and drinking six to eight glasses of water a day can also help.
Stress
Stress can cause spasms in the colon that lead to IBS symptoms. The colon has many nerves that link it to the brain and that can make it sensitive to stress, particularly in people with IBS. Even people without the disease experience butterflies or cramps in the gut during stressful periods.
Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation or counseling can help.
Treatment
If you suspect IBS, see a doctor. He can tailor a treatment plan to your symptoms. If you are constipated, your doctor may prescribe laxatives or fiber supplements. If you have diarrhea, you may need anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide. You may be given an antispasmodic to reduce pain and control spasms. Sometimes antidepressants or other medications can help.
