Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder that causes many symptoms. Some of the symptoms include abdominal pain or discomfort, cramping or bloating, and diarrhea or constipation. As many as one in five Americans have IBS, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center. IBS can start at any age but often begins before age 35, and it tends to run in families. Both men and women can be diagnosed with this condition. However, as much as 75 percent are women.

Due to the many factors contributing to the symptoms, the causes of IBS are not very well defined. Doctors believe that faulty communication between the brain and intestinal tracts causes symptoms. This miscommunication causes abnormal muscle contractions or spasms that cause the cramping pain and discomfort. The following is a list of factors that cause pain in people suffering from IBS.

• Eating
• Stress
• Trapped gas, causing bloating
• Hormonal changes (during menstrual cycle)
• Some antibiotics
• Genetics

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment

Treatment for IBS is different for every individual. You will need to meet with your healthcare professional and work on a regiment that works best for you and your symptoms. For some people with IBS, the following may help ease the symptoms.

• Avoid caffeine.
• Avoid chocolate.
• Avoid carbonated drinks.
• Limit your intake of fatty foods. Fats increase gut sensations, which can make abdominal pain seem worse.
• If diarrhea is your main symptom, limit dairy products, fruit or artificial sweeteners.
• Increase fiber in your diet to help relieve constipation.
• Avoid foods such as beans, cabbage or uncooked cauliflower or broccoli to help relieve bloating or gas.
• Avoid eating large meals.
• Drink six to eight glasses of water per day.

To relieve tension and stress, you need to get more exercise such as jogging or walking. Relaxation or meditation exercises will help lower stress and reduce muscle tension that cause spasms.

There also are medications available to help relieve symptoms. You will need to discuss these with your doctor.

IBS is a difficult condition to diagnose. Everyone’s symptoms are different, and many of these can be symptoms of a separate problem. It is important to discuss this with your doctor in order to get an IBS diagnosis and receive the proper treatment.

Do not let IBS rule your life. Get it under control and help improve the quality of your life. Call 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737) to request an appointment today!

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References
justIBS.com. “Facts About Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS),” 2007.
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearninghouse. “Irritable Bowel Syndrome,” National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 2006.
http://www.webmd.com/ibs/guide/default.htm
womenhealth.gov. “Irritable Bowel Syndrome,” National Women’s Health Information Center, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2007.