Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects approximately 10 - 20 percent of the population. No cure for IBS but treatment can help for symptoms relief and improve the quality of life.
The cause is unknown but researchers think that gastrointestinal abnormalities, food intolerance, and psychological issues may be contributed
The main symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements (e.g., diarrhea and/or constipation). Abdominal pain can vary in location and severity. Some patients may have diarrhea only, constipation only, or both alternatively; some people may have bloating, gas, or belching
There are many types of food might aggravate irritable bowel syndrome, including dairy products due to lactose, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. These types of food increase bowel gas and ultimately cause pain.
There is no test to diagnose irritable bowel syndrome. The diagnosis is mainly by a patient's history, physical examination, and blood test to make sure there is nothing else might cause the symptoms.
Different treatments are available to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome; these include the monitoring of symptoms and patterns, adjustment of the diet to increase fibre and eliminate foods that can worsen symptoms, new studies have shown that high fibre diet may worsen IBS symptoms.
Proper treatment for diarrhea and constipation is important side of the treatment
Stress is a well known aggravator for IBS for this reason anti anxiety or antidepressant medications may help relieving the symptoms.
Combination treatments are often used, this will be individualized based on patients' symptoms.
Many herbal and natural therapies have been advertised for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome; but, they are not recommended due to lack of benefit.
Despite of the pain, most of patients are able to live a normal life by controlling their symptoms .
See your doctor to discuss your options
