IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, affects an estimated 15-20% of the population today, which is more than depression, diabetes, and asthma combined. This troubling condition that is physical in nature rather than psychological is characterized by a series of symptoms generally occurring in the lower abdominal region. These symptoms can be considered mild, moderate, or severe although the intensity is likely to vary, even from day to day, in the same person. IBS, a disorder which is most commonly diagnosed by gastroenterologists, affects people of all ages and ethnicities. However, women are twice as likely as their male counterparts to experience the condition, although researchers are still unsure as to why. IBS in women is often associated with their menstrual cycle, although it can occur at any time. “Irritable bowel” refers to disturbances or changes in regular bowel function, and the word “syndrome” indicates that there are a number of signs rather than one exclusive symptom that characterizes the condition. While everyone may have an occasional disturbance of the bowel and its functioning from time to time, people afflicted with IBS experience more severe symptoms that are frequent and occur on a regular basis. Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome can vary in intensity and location, although the lower abdomen is where the most “activity” occurs. IBS is characterized by a series of symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, gas-like cramping, reoccurring or chronic diarrhea and changes in the frequency or consistency of bowel patterns. Nausea, bloating, gas, and constipation alternating with diarrhea are also commonly reported symptoms of IBS. 25-50% of IBS patients also report that they experience regular heartburn along with an uncomfortable feeling of fullness. Many people suffering with IBS also report a number of signs that are non-gastrointestinal in nature such as muscle pain, sexual dysfunction, fatigue and sleep disturbances. Lower backaches and headaches are also commonly reported symptoms from those with severe cases of IBS. The symptoms of IBS are likely to mimic those of many other disorders, which is why a proper diagnosis by a physician is essential. Clinical tests that depend on factors such as your age, overall health, your family history, as well as your reoccurring symptoms can be conducted to rule out other conditions. Symptoms such as blood in the stool, weight loss, fever, and continual pain are NOT signs of IBS and should be reported to your doctor as soon as possible. The signs or symptoms of IBS occur due to a disturbance in function between the brain and the gastrointestinal system, which is why IBS is classified as a “functional” disorder. People suffering from the condition appear to have no physical signs of disease such as structural abnormalities that can be detected by medical tests. Experts believe that there is a disorder or some form of miscommunication between the interactions of the brain and the intestinal system, which ultimately affects movement and the sensitivity of nerves in the intestines in people with IBS. The brain and the autonomic nervous system are responsible for regulating the bowel and its functioning which is one of the ways we know that IBS is not a psychological or psychiatric disorder. While there is no cure for IBS, there are a number of effective ways of controlling or even eliminating the symptoms of the condition such as diet, stress management, herbal and organic supplements, hypnosis and drug therapy including laxatives, anti-diarrheals, anti-spasmodic drugs and anti-depressants. With proper diagnosis and treatment it is possible to lead a normal, productive life even with IBS.
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