Irritable Bowel Syndrome is one of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract disorders. It is a group of symptoms that affect the digestive system. Also considered an intestinal disorder that causes pain to the stomach, gas, constipation and diarrhea. 

 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is considered to be a type of functional GI disorder. This creates problems with the brain-gut interaction. Brain-gut interaction is how the brain and gut work together. There are 3 different types of IBS. Based on the type of bowel movement you have is how you figure which IBS you have. The three different types are: 

·      IBS with constipation

·      IBS with diarrhea

·      IBS with mixed bowel habits

IBS with constipation

This happens with most of the poop is hard and lumpy

 

IBS with diarrhea

Typically occurs when the poop is mostly loose and watery

 

IBS with mixed bowel movements 

When your bowel movements are both hard and lumpy and watery and loose all in the same day

 

Symptoms 

Like any GI disorder when you feel emotional, stress or anxiety it can bring on symptoms of IBS. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, and constipation. With IBS, the colon muscles can contract more than those who do not suffer from this disorder. This can trigger symptoms like cramping to begin. IBS can also bring excess bacteria to the GI tract, triggering symptoms to show. Changes in the appearance of your bowel movements are also a sign. 

 

Causes

Not much is known as to what causes IBS, but researchers have their own theories based on studies done. Some believe the colon becomes hypersensitive, causing the bowel movements to spasm, which can cause constipation or diarrhea. Another theory is chemicals created by the body that control nerve signs between your brain and digestive tract. Others think bacteria in the bowels cause you to get this condition. 

 

According to About IBS, between 25 and 45 million Americans suffer from IBS. All ages can be diagnosed with IBS. Others are at risk of getting IBS compared to others. 

 

Some of the risks others face are: 

·     family history of IBS 

·     stress

·     age

·     digestive problems 

·     women get it twice more than men would

·     sensitivity to food

 

How is it diagnosed 

First, the doctor looks into your medical history and performs a physical exam. Depending on the symptoms you are feeling, blood tests, stool samples, and x-rays may be performed to rule out other diseases similar to IBS. Your doctor may also recommend you get a colonoscopy. 

When you should see a professional 

If you notice a change in your bowel movements or are feeling any IBS symptoms, you might want to see a doctor. IBS can be mild to serious. More serious symptoms include unexplained vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, difficulty swallowing and rectal bleeding. Exercise and diet can help IBS symptoms improve. 

 

If you have irritable bowel syndrome, you do not need to go through it alone. Come talk to one of our IBS specialists today. We can help you control the symptoms so that you can continue to live your life pain free. Appointments are also available online.