stomach pain

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or spastic colon is a bowel disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain, discomfort, bloating, and variation of bowel movements without any organic cause. The disease doesn’t cause harm the intestines or lead further to any serious illnesses or disease. Most people suffering from this disease can control the symptoms by proper diet, stress management, and prescribed medications. Others though find the ailment disabling. It literally takes them out of their comfort zone and makes ordinary activities very laborious. It is one of the most common disorders and usually affects women more than men.

The signs of irritable bowel syndrome vary from person to person. Some experience constipation while others experience diarrhea and in some cases both at the same time. People who suffer from IBS report instances of this condition recurring or fluctuating.
There are times when the symptoms subside and then later on return in a few months.

Researchers have yet to find out what causes IBS. Some presume that it is cause by a colon pr large intestine that is particularly sensitive to certain foods and stress. The immune system which safeguards us from infection and diseases is also being suspected to be involved with this condition. There is no cure for IBS yet but there are treatments to which try to relieve symptoms.
Seeing a doctor is the first step in treating irritable bowel syndrome. It is generally diagnosed on the basis of a complete medical history including symptoms and physical examination. There is no specific test for this condition rather the tests are being done to make sure there are no underlying problems. If the tests results are negative then it would be safe to say that the patient has IBS. Many doctors refer to a list of specific symptoms to make a diagnosis on the patient. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:

  1. abdominal pain for at least 12 weeks out of the previous 12 months.
  2. change of frequency in bowel movements
  3. change in appearance of the stool
  4. uncontrollable urgency to have a bowel movement
  5. mucus in the stool
  6. bloating
  7. difficulty in passing of the stool

Irritable bowel syndrome can best give you the best treatments for and can encourage you to manage your stress and change your diet.