Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is also referred to as “nervous bowel” or spastic colon. Typical symptoms are abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.

Irritable bowel syndrome is not dangerous. Most cases are mild and can be effectively managed without treatment.

However, for some people, symptoms can be so severe that they greatly limit and negatively impact everyday life.

There is no cure for irritable bowel syndrome. It is possible for many to determine over time what makes their digestive issues better or worse. There are also various ways to alleviate symptoms.

Cramps, persistent abdominal or lower abdominal pain, and changes in stool are typical symptoms. Women tend to experience constipation, while men typically experience diarrhea. Some people alternate between constipation and diarrhea.

Flatulence, a feeling of fullness, and a mucous discharge are all possible signs of irritable bowel syndrome.

It is not yet definitely known what causes irritable bowel syndrome. Some theories assume that hypersensitive intestinal nerves, problems with the intestinal muscles, changes to the intestinal flora and inflammation of the intestinal wall play a role.

It has also been observed that irritable bowel syndrome is more common in those who have previously taken antibiotics or had a gastrointestinal infection with fever and severe diarrhea. Hereditary factors may also play a role. In addition, eating habits, food intolerances, psychological strain, and stress are considered possible triggers.

However, for many of these factors it is not clear if they are a cause or result of irritable bowel syndrome.

It is estimated that irritable bowel syndrome occurs in around 10 to 20 out of every 100 people, with women being affected approximately twice as often as men.

Most cases of irritable bowel syndrome develop between the ages of 20 and 30.

Irritable bowel syndrome is usually chronic. i.e., it requires long-term management. Those with irritable bowel syndrome often have periods with only mild or even no symptoms followed by periods with more severe symptoms.

Doctors refer to irritable bowel syndrome in the case of:

• symptoms such as abdominal pain and flatulence lasting longer than 3 months.
• stool changes, e.g., constipation, diarrhea, or less frequent/more frequent bowel movements.
• symptoms that noticeably impact the quality of life to an extent that a patient seeks help.
• no indication of another disease that could be causing the symptoms. 

Note: Irritable bowel syndrome is not necessarily responsible for such symptoms. There can also be other causes like lactose intolerance or celiac disease. However, it is also possible for a person to have both food intolerances and irritable bowel syndrome.

For example, inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Diverticulitis, an inflammatory condition in which feces becomes trapped in pockets in the intestinal wall, is another possibility. Gall stones can also trigger sudden and intense abdominal pain. 

If the digestive issues are accompanied by other symptoms like blood in the stool, colon cancer should be considered. However, colon cancer is very rare in people under the age of 50. Medical examination by a doctor is always required in the case of blood in the stool.

To make a diagnosis, the doctor will start by asking about the symptoms and any known intolerances or medical conditions. Blood tests and other examinations can be used to eliminate other causes. The doctor will also inquire about other life circumstances, such as whether the symptoms occur more frequently when stressed.

Sufficient exercise and a balanced diet are essential for healthy digestion. However, doctors often recommend additional measures for people with irritable bowel syndrome. For example, those affected can test whether certain foods make their symptoms worse. Any foods that cause worsening of symptoms should not be eaten.

Some people with irritable bowel syndrome can minimize their symptoms by eating their meals in multiple small portions throughout the day. It can also be helpful to keep a diary to determine what improves and what worsens symptoms.

Various treatments for irritable bowel syndrome are also available. In consultation with their doctor, people with irritable bowel syndrome can try different treatments to see what works for them. Treatments that are helpful for some people can worsen symptoms in others.

Most treatment options have not yet been sufficiently studied. However, studies have shown that some treatments are effective at least in certain people or alleviate symptoms at least temporarily.

Treatment options include:

• peppermint oil
• probiotics
• anticonvulsants
• laxatives
• antibiotics
• antidepressants
• psychological methods like cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnosis

For more information, for example about what can improve and what can worsen irritable bowel syndrome, visit gesundheitsinformation.de.

Mild cases of irritable bowel syndrome can usually be effectively managed. However, some people with irritable bowel syndrome have symptoms that are so severe that they significantly impact their quality of life. For example, in certain situations, some people can suddenly experience such an overwhelming urge to defecate that they need urgent access to a bathroom. People with this symptom need to carefully plan their meals and activities.

This complicates everyday life and makes spontaneous activities problematic.

People with severe irritable bowel syndrome can be embarrassed by their flatulence or because they often need to go to the bathroom. These issues are sometimes not taken seriously by friends and family and sometimes not even by doctors. This can be hurtful to those affected.

However, most people find ways to live with their irritable bowel syndrome without too many limitations.