Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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
  1. Regular exercise
  2. Improved sleep habits
  • Dietary changes
  1. Increasing dietary fibre
  2. 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

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