WHAT IS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that may affect over 15 percent of the general population. It is sometimes referred to as spastic colon, spastic colitis, mucous colitis or nervous stomach. IBS should not be confused with other diseases of the bowel such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF IBS?
People with IBS may experience abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits – either diarrhea, constipation, or both at different times. Symptoms associated with IBS include abdominal cramps, fullness or bloating, abnormal stool consistency, passage of mucous, urgency or a feeling of incomplete bowel movements.
WHAT CAUSES IBS?
The symptoms of IBS seem to occur as a result of abnormal functioning or communication between the nervous system and the muscles of the bowel.
WHAT ROLE DOES STRESS PLAY IN IBS?
IBS is not caused by stress. It is not a psychological or psychiatric disorder, however emotional stress may contribute to IBS.
HOW IS IBS TREATED?
Understanding that IBS is not a serious or life-threatening condition may relieve anxiety and stress, which often contribute to the problem. Stress reduction, use of behavioural therapy, biofeedback, relaxation or pain management techniques can help relieve the symptoms of IBS in some individuals.
Individuals with moderate to severe IBS may benefit from prescribed medication. Medications can help to control the symptoms of IBS but they do not cure the condition. Medications act directly on the intestinal muscles to help the contractions return to normal. Antidepressants in low doses have been shown to be helpful in some with IBS.
HOW LONG DOES THE TREATMENT TAKE TO RELIEVE SYMPTOMS?
Relief of IBS Symptoms is often a slow process. It may take six months or more for definite improvement to be appreciated.
Patience is extremely important in dealing with this problem.
CAN IBS LEAD TO MORE SERIOUS PROBLEMS?
IBS does not cause cancer, bleeding or inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis.
