Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), also known as spastic colon, affects as many as one in five Americans, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). Stress can worsen the problem, resulting in a flare up of gastrointestinal complaints and pain. While there is no cure for IBS, several treatment options are available to reduce the severity of the symptoms.
Identification
Spastic colon affects both the large and small intestine, causing food to move too slowly or too quickly through the intestines. The condition can be particularly painful and embarrassing, but it does not damage the intestines or cause serious disease to develop. IBS occurs more often in women than men, according to the NDDIC, and starts by age 35 in 50 percent of all cases.
Symptoms
Symptoms of the disorder include bloating and abdominal pain. Diarrhea or constipation is common, with some people suffering from both problems. "Spastic" colon received its name from the intestinal spasms that people with the condition often experience. These spasms cause cramping that is relieved when you have a bowel movement. Bowel movements can be preceded by sudden urges that make it imperative to find a restroom immediately or risk an embarrassing accident. Other symptoms of IBS may include nausea, mucus in the stool, heartburn, upper abdominal pain, incomplete bowel movements, fatigue, headache, muscle pain or low back pain.
Diagnosis
IBS is diagnosed based on your medical history, a physical examination and your symptoms. Your doctor may request that you undergo blood and stool tests and abdominal X-rays to rule out other causes for your symptoms. Your doctor may also want to view the lining of your intestines with a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy examination. During these tests, a thin, flexible tube containing a miniature camera is inserted into the intestines through the anus. The Rome III Diagnostic Criteria is used to diagnose IBS, according to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD). Patients who meet the diagnostic criteria have experienced symptoms for at least three days per month during the previous three months. A positive diagnosis is made if abdominal pain is accompanied by improvement after a bowel movement and if there are changes in stool frequency or appearance.
Medical Treatment
Over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medication can be helpful in controlling diarrhea, while over-the-counter laxatives may be recommended if constipation is a problem. Cramping may be relieved by one of several prescription antispasmodic medications, including dicylomine and hyocyamine. Low doses of antidepressants may relieve pain associated with the condition. Both antispasmodics and antidepressants can make constipation worse, and your doctor may prescribe these medications in conjunction with other medications that work to relax intestinal and bladder muscles. Tranquilizers and sedatives can be helpful in reducing symptoms by relieving anxiety and stress. Lotronex may be prescribed for women who have severe diarrhea. The drug can cause a decrease in blood flow to the colon and severe constipation and is only used when other treatment methods are unsuccessful.
Prevention/Solution
Reducing stress can help lessen the chances of flareups, as stress can increase sensitivity in the intestines. Psychotherapy, biofeedback and regular exercise can help you manage your stress levels. Eating a diet high in fiber may help improve intestinal functioning. Fiber can be obtained by eating vegetables and whole grain breads or by taking fiber supplements. Fiber should be added gradually to your diet to avoid constipation. Keeping a food diary will help you determine if certain foods are making your condition worse. Foods that cause problems should be eliminated from your diet. Caffeine, chocolate, high fat foods, fruit, cabbage, alcohol and beans are foods that may worsen your symptoms.
