Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Check out 5 Major signs and symptoms of IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that normally affects the large intestine. 

Typical symptoms include abdominal pain with either diarrhea or constipation, and sometimes alternating between the two conditions. 

Other names for IBS are the spastic colon and irritable colon disorder. 

Women are more prone to IBS than men. 

The first symptoms usually occur in early adulthood. 

Very few people experience severe symptoms with IBS. Most people can control the condition with changes in their lifestyle and diet and by managing stress levels.

There are three types of IBS

Constipation-predominant – alternate between constipation with normal stool.
Diarrhea- predominant – diarrhea symptoms are experienced first thing in the morning or after a meal.
Alternate between diarrhea and constipation.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain is an important symptom of irritable bowel syndrome. It is accompanied by changing bowel habits. Symptoms are not constant and can change over a period.

• Abdominal pain or cramps.
• Diarrhea or constipation – sometimes occur alternating phases.
• Bloating and passing excessive gas
• Mucus in the stool.
• Feeling that the bowel is not completely empty after motion.

Cause

Doctors and researchers do not know the cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not known. 

Genetics and past life experience may play a role in the disorder. You may show the symptoms of IBS because of colon motility (muscle contractions) and increased sensitivity to food.

Factors which may play a role in the irritable colon disorder are:-

• Infection – A case of gastroenteritis may cause IBS, even after the infection has cured.
• Food intolerance – Food intolerance or allergies may trigger IBS. This may be due to poor absorption of sugar lactose is commonly activates the condition.
• General diet – Low fiber diet can increase constipation in IBS patients.
• Sometimes high spice or sugar levels can cause problems.
• Emotional stress can affect the nerves of the bowel in some people.
• Medication – certain medications (antibiotics, antacids, and painkillers) can cause diarrhea or constipation.
• Hormones – Women get affected by IBS more than men. Symptoms can worsen during menstruation.

Diagnosis

A doctor will review your medical history, conduct an in-depth physical exam. If you have diarrhea with IBS the doctor may want to rule out gluten intolerance. 

The doctor will look for symptoms and signs which are considered as red flags or alarm signs

• Anemia
• Blood in stool
• Inexplicable weight loss
• Fever
• Family history of Celiac disease or colon cancer.

Treating

There is no treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. The best doctors will aim to relieve symptoms. They may suggest lifestyle changes. The doctor will help you identify and avoid triggers.

Treatment may include

• Increase the fiber content in your diet.
• Reduce or eliminate gas-producing food
• Reduce or eliminate dairy food.
• Medication to improve symptoms such as anti-diarrhea medications, pain-relieving medication, constipation relieving medication, and antispasmodic medication to ease cramping.
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• https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/irritable-bowel-syndrome-check-out-5-major-signs-and-symptoms-of-ibs