Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), also known as irritable colon, is a very common, chronic condition of the large intestine.
It is often associated with symptoms that can be very unpleasant such as pain in the abdomen, diarrhea, gas and bloating. IBS is believed to affect up to 5% of the population at any given time, and it generally first manifests during childhood. The cause of IBS remains unknown, but it is thought to have a genetic component.
Stress can be a trigger of IBS, particularly if the cause is considered to be stress related. This may result from emotional or psychological problems such as depression, anxiety or worry, and can lead to a breakdown of normal bowel function, leading to distress.
Stress may also be caused by lack of sleep, or due to lack of exercise. It can be caused by emotional stress, such as from family tension, conflict and divorce. It can also be caused by physical stress, such as being overweight or having poor eating habits. Irritability and abdominal pain may also be a symptom of IBS.
Stress is also thought to play a role in the development of IBS. This is because it is possible that there is a link between a patient’s ability to cope with stress and the occurrence of a bowel disorder.
Stress can also trigger IBS.
If a patient is subjected to too much stress, the body’s normal response is to increase the amount of water stored in the abdomen. This water retention can lead to bloating. If this process is repeated too often, the result is the discomfort we now associate with IBS.
In some cases, sufferers of IBS are aware that they are suffering from a problem. In others, however, the symptoms can be difficult to pin point, and therefore it is impossible for the doctor to diagnose IBS. Once it is diagnosed, sufferers can look at their diets and lifestyle to try to alleviate their symptoms.
One important thing sufferers can do to help their IBS is to eat more fibre. This means eating food high in fibre content; this will reduce the risk of bloating and abdominal pains.
Another way of helping your IBS symptoms is to change your diet. Try to make changes to your eating habits, including avoiding foods that cause you discomfort, such as sugar, caffeine, alcohol, processed food and fried food. These foods can all aggravate the symptoms of IBS, but they can also trigger other conditions and diseases such as cancer.
When trying to deal with your IBS symptoms, make sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
These types of food are high in fibre, which makes it easier for the digestive system to process. They are also full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help to cleanse and detoxify the body.
Drink lots of water, and get plenty of rest. Both of these actions help to flush toxins from the body, as well as improve the way your body works, by increasing its energy levels.
Medication can help reduce IBS symptoms. There are a number of drugs that have been designed to deal with IBS. However, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking any medications, especially if you suffer from other illnesses.
Some of the common drugs used for pain relief include anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. These are taken in high doses, to reduce inflammation, which is one of the causes of IBS. Anti-anxiety drugs can help to reduce abdominal pain.
However, be aware that not all drugs used for IBS have positive side effects. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor before taking any medication.