THE Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a health problem that is characterized by a set of symptoms that include abdominal pain and distension and change in bowel habits. The patient with the syndrome may experience periods in which he suffers from diarrhea, alternating with periods of constipation.
IBS is a chronic health problem that negatively affects patients' quality of life, since its symptoms can persist for a long time. Its cause is unknown, and tests demonstrate the absence of structural and biochemical abnormalities in these patients. Diet and psychosomatic changes, however, can trigger the onset of symptoms.
The diagnosis of IBS is clinical, and tests may be ordered to exclude other diseases. With regard to treatment, it is recommended, mainly, a change in lifestyle.
Read more: Ulcerative colitis — chronic disease characterized by inflammation of the lining of the intestine
Topics in this article
- 1 - Irritable Bowel Syndrome Summary
- 2 - What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
- 3 - Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- 4 - Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- 5 - Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- 6 - Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Summary
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a term used to refer to a set of symptoms that include changes in bowel habits and abdominal pain and distension.
It has no clear cause, but the onset of symptoms is related to the ingestion of some foods and psychosomatic changes.
Its diagnosis is clinical, and some tests may be ordered to rule out other causes, as it causes symptoms similar to those of other gastrointestinal problems.
Its treatment is based on changing lifestyle habits, including diet and physical activity.
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a term used for a set of symptoms that include change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea) and abdominal pain and bloating. Patients with IBS may experience diarrhea, constipation, or an alternating combination of both.
The SII is a chronic disease that has no detectable organic causes in exams. It affects both men and women, occurring in all age groups. Despite this, there are more cases of IBS in women than in men.
Do not stop now... There's more after the ad ;)
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) has no cause understood, however, it is assumed to be a multifactorial disorder. According to the Brazilian Society of Digestive Motility and Neurogastroenterology, it is believed that a visceral hypersensitivity is responsible for the symptoms and is aggravated by the ingestion of certain foods. In addition, the Society admits that IBS symptoms may be preceded by some psychosomatic changes, such as stress.
Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Until the moment, there is no specific treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). However, it is recommended careful analysis of food of the patient, seeking to identify the foods and drinks that cause the increase in symptoms, so that the individual avoids them. The Brazilian Society of Digestive Motility and Neurogastroenterology highlights that highly fermentable foods, known as FODMAP, can cause an increase in IBS symptoms.
In addition to changing your diet, it is recommended to practice of physical activities, since exercise is related to the improvement of intestinal transit. The use of probiotics and other medications may also be recommended. As IBS can be made worse by stress and anxiety, therapies may also be recommended.
Read more: Importance of physical activities
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
People with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) experience symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort and constipation, diarrhea or an alternating combination of these symptoms. They can also present feeling of incomplete evacuation, urgency, and abdominal inflammation. In addition, the person with IBS feels an intense urge to have a bowel movement, even with an empty bowel. This condition is known as tenesmus.
It is worth noting that the patient with IBS usually has other symptoms that are not gastrointestinal. Among them, we can mention psychological symptoms and difficulty in daily activities.
Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is made through the symptom analysis presented by the patient. For IBS to be confirmed, the onset of symptoms must have been observed for at least six months, and symptoms must have been present within the last three months. In general, it is not necessary additional exams, however, some may be requested so that other diseases are ruled out, since their symptoms are similar to those presented in other gastrointestinal problems.
By Vanessa Sardinha dos Santos
Biology teacher
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
SANTOS, Vanessa Sardinha dos. "Irritable bowel syndrome"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/doencas/sindrome-do-intestino-irritavel.htm. Accessed on July 12, 2022.
