Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): symptoms, treatment and helpful tips

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disease that affects the work of the intestines and the digestive system. IBS symptoms can significantly reduce the quality of life, leading to discomfort and health problems. Understanding this disease is important for effective managing symptoms and improving patient welfare. In this article, we will introduce what IBS is, what its symptoms are, and what treatment methods and tips can help in everyday life with this disease.

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), is a chronic disorder of intestinal functioning, which is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain and changes in the rhythm of bowel movements, such as diarrhea, constipation or their alternate. This disease is not associated with any specific damage to the digestive tract or structural changes, which means that the diagnosis is mainly based on the clinical picture and exclusion of other diseases. IBS is one of the most frequently diagnosed gastrointestinal functional disorders and affects about 10-20% of the population. Although the causes of IBS are not fully understood, it is believed that several factors may contribute to its development, including visceral hypersensitivity, changes in the intestinal microflore, genetic factors, diet and stress. The heterogeneity of symptoms and their severity contribute to significant differences in the experiences of patients with IBS.

IBS symptoms

Irritable bowel syndrome is manifested by a number of ailments that may vary depending on the person. Typical symptoms are:

1. Abdominal pain and discomfort: This is one of the most characteristic IBS symptoms. Pain can have different severity and location, it often improves after bowel movement.
2. Changes in the rhythm of bowel movements: People with IBS may experience diarrhea, constipation or their alternation. Diarrhea can be watery, and constipation can be associated with difficulties in giving up the stool.
3. Flatulence and gases: Flowing can lead to the feeling of fullness and excessive accumulation of gas.
4. Mucus in the stool: Some people from IBS may notice the presence of mucus in the stool.
5. Excessive peristalsis: Incorrect intestinal cramps can contribute to pain and changes in the rhythm of bowel movements.

IBS symptoms may increase under the influence of stress, some foods and hormonal changes, which is often observed in women in connection with the menstrual cycle.

Irritable bowel syndrome - how to diagnose?

Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome is mainly based on the clinical image and exclusion of other diseases that may give similar symptoms. In the diagnostic process, the doctor usually performs:

Medical intelligence

A detailed conversation with the patient about the symptoms, their severity, frequencies and factors that can intensify them.

Physical examination

It includes a palpation abdominal examination to exclude other causes of pain.

Rome IV criteria

These are diagnostic criteria developed by specialists that help in recognizing IBS. According to them, abdominal pain must occur at least 1 day a week in the last 3 months and must be associated with at least two of the three criteria: changes in the frequency of bowel movements, changes in the consistency of stool, improvement after bowel movement <2>.

Laboratory and imaging tests

They can be ordered to exclude other diseases, such as celiac disease, intestinal inflammatory diseases and cancer. They can include blood, stool tests and colonoscopy. It should be remembered that the IBS diagnosis is an exclusive diagnosis, which means that other potential causes of symptoms must be eliminated before making a final diagnosis.

What is irritable for the intestine?

IBS treatment is complicated and multi -faceted because there is no one universal method effective for all patients. Therapy usually includes:

Changes in the diet

Many IBS patients find that some foods may intensify their symptoms. The FODMAP diet (fermentable oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyols) is one of the most recommended. It consists in limiting the consumption of food rich in easily fermenting carbohydrates, such as some fruits, vegetables, dairy products and sweeteners <3>.

Medicines

They can include antimicrobial (e.g. rifaxymin), antispasmodic drugs (e.g. furniture) and painkillers. For patients with diarrhea, loperamide can be used, and for constipation - likesiproston or magnesium sulfate.

Psychological therapies

Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in reducing stress and improving symptoms, especially in patients with severe stress or anxiety.

Probiotics

Some strains of probiotic bacteria can help to alleviate IBS symptoms by correcting intestinal dysbiosis.

Products increasing IBS symptoms

An important element of IBS management is identification and avoiding foods that may intensify symptoms. Some of the products most frequently reported by patients are those rich in FODMAP, i.e. fermenting oligo, di-, monosaccharides and polyols. Fruktans, found in onions, garlic and wheat, lactose present in milk and its preserves, fructose in apples, pears and watermelons, as well as polyolets, present in sweeteners such as sorbitol and xyyliol, and in some vegetables and fruits such as avocado and plums, IBS symptoms may intensify. In addition, fatty and fried dishes can lead to intestinal diarrhea and spasms, and alcohol and caffeine can irritate the digestive tract. Carbonated drinks can also cause excessive accumulation of gases and flatulence.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in pregnant women

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic bowel disease that can affect the comfort of everyday life, especially in pregnant women. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and additional stress may exacerbate IBS symptoms, which means that managing this disease becomes an extremely challenge. Knowledge about IBS and special tips for pregnant women can help minimize discomfort and improve the quality of life in this unique period. In this article, we will take a closer look at how IBS can affect pregnant women and what steps can be taken to relieve symptoms.

Nutrition in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

It is recommended to consume easily digestible food and avoid excessive processed products. Even healthy foods, such as whole grain cereals, vegetables and fruits, can be better tolerated when they are well cooked and consumed in small quantities. Some recommended products are:

• Rice, porridge and other easily digestible cereals.
• Lean protein, like chicken and fish.
• Vegetables and fruits with low fodmaps content (e.g. carrots, berries).

Nutrition journal

Keeping a nutrition journal can be helpful in identifying foods that cause symptoms. Saving what and when you eat and noting symptoms can help determine individual tolerance and intolerance.

Advice and tips

In addition to the aforementioned methods, there are several additional strategies that can help manage IBS. Regular physical activity, such as exercises, can improve intestinal motor skills and general health. Relaxation techniques, including yoga, meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce stress, which often intensifies IBS symptoms. Eating the right type of fiber, both soluble and insoluble, can help regulate bowel movements and improve intestinal function. The regularity of meals, i.e. eating them at permanent times and avoiding long -term starvation, can also help maintain regular intestinal work.

Summary

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a complex disease that requires an individual approach to treatment. Recognizing and avoiding factors increasing symptoms, along with proper management of diet and stress, can significantly improve the quality of life of people from IBS. It is also important to consult a doctor in order to determine the appropriate treatment and monitor the health.

Sources

Ford, A. C., Talley, N. J., "Irritable Bowel Syndrome", BMJ, 2012. Lacy, B. E., et al., "Bowel Disorders", Gastroenterology, 2016. Hill, P., Muir, J. G., Gibson, P. R., "Evidence-Based Dietary Management of Functional Gastrointestinal Symptoms: The Fodmap Approach", Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 2017.