Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Description

Introduction

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that leads to abdominal pain and bowel changes.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem that affects the large intestine. It can cause abdominal cramping, bloating, and a change in bowel habits. Some people with the disorder have constipation. Some have diarrhoea.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common, long-term condition of the digestive system. It can cause bouts of stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and/or constipation.

Causes

Abnormal movements of the colon and small intestines (too fast or slow, or too strong)

Hypersensitivity to pain from a full bowel or gas

Food sensitivities, possibly caused by poor absorption of sugars or acids in food

Gastroenteritis ("stomach flu" or "stomach bug"), a viral or bacterial infection of the stomach and intestines, may trigger IBS symptoms

Psychological conditions such as anxiety or depression are observed in many people with IBS, though these conditions have not been found to be a direct cause of IBS.

Reproductive hormones or neurotransmitters may be off-balance in people with IBS.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

Genetics is thought to be a possible cause of IBS, but so far this hereditary link has not been proven.

Symptoms:

Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized mostly by abdominal pain and cramping. Other symptoms and signs include:

Diarrhoea: IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D) can come with sudden urges to have bowel movements and loose stools.

Constipation: IBS with constipation (IBS-C) can be accompanied by straining during bowel movements and infrequent stools.

Increased gas

Abdominal swelling or bloating

Abdominal pain or discomfort

Cramping pain after eating certain foods

Nausea

Mucousy or foamy stool

Unexplained weight loss

Loss of appetite.