Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic condition where the normal functions of the bowel are disrupted.
Causes
- Abnormal gastrointestinal tract movements, increased awareness of normal bodily functions, and a change in the nervous system communication between the brain and the GI tract
- Abnormal movements of the colon( too fast or too slow)
- Episodes of gastroenteritis.
- Dietary allergies
- Eatables
- Fizzy drinks
- Chocolate
- Drinks that contain caffeine, such as tea, coffee or cola
- Processed snacks, such as crisps and biscuits
- Fatty food
- Fried food
- Stress
- Alcohol
Symptoms and signs
- Change in bowel habits(diarrhoea, constipation or sometimes both )
- Feeling of not fully emptied bowel
- Frequent and urgent need to urinate
- Abdominal pain and cramping( relieved by emptying bowels)
- An urgent need to go to the toilet can result in urinary or bowel incontinence.
- Anxiety.
- Bad breath
- Bloating and swelling of the abdomen
- Constant tiredness
- Depression
- Excessive wind (flatulence)
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nausea (feeling sick)
- Passing mucus from the rectum
Investigations
There is no test to diagnose irritable bowel syndrome, but tests may be done to rule out other problems:
- Full blood count
- Stool cultures
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
- Lifestyle changes
- Regular exercise
- Improved sleep habits
- Dietary changes
- Increasing dietary fibre
- Avoiding foods and drinks that stimulate the intestines
- Counselling
- Ayurvedic Medications for a complete cure.
Prevention
- Maintain good physical fitness( improves bowel function and helps reduce stress)
- Stop smoking
- Avoid coffee, gas-producing foods, and spicy foods.
- Avoid alcohol consumption