Irritable bowel syndrome is a group of intestinal dysfunctional disorders with persistent or intermittent episodes of abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits and stool properties, but lacking structural and biochemical abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract. And it will not cause you to be more prone to rectal cancer.
I. Symptoms
The main symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are changes in bowel habits and abdominal pain. These can include constipation, diarrhea, or both. You may have abdominal cramps but still feel the need to have a bowel movement. Many people may feel bloated and find their abdomen swollen. Persistent pain and frequent trips to the bathroom can have a serious impact on your life. In women, these symptoms are more common during menstruation.
Second, what is the cause of the disease
It is not possible to determine exactly what causes this disorder. One theory is that interference with the signals between the brain and the intestines is responsible. The miscommunication of signals may trigger spasms of the intestinal muscles, painful contractions, and alter the speed of digestion. Or it may be caused by extra sensitivity of the intestinal nerves to certain foods or stress.
Third, the people affected
Anyone can get irritable bowel syndrome, but women are twice as likely to have it as men. Family history has an influence. Symptoms usually appear before the age of 35. It is relatively rare for the first symptoms to appear after the age of 50.
IV. How to diagnose
There is no single test used today to detect irritable bowel syndrome. Doctors usually base their diagnosis on the patient’s personal description. When you have symptoms, you should be specific with your doctor and not be shy about describing them. Your doctor will send you for tests to rule out other causes of that symptom.
V. Effects of stress
Everyone is nervous about feeling stressed, such as during your exams or presentations. For people with irritable bowel syndrome, stress can trigger or exacerbate their symptoms. Therefore, it is important to manage your stress well.
Sixth, what are the triggers
You should further find out what is making your symptoms worse. In addition to stress, common triggers include what you eat, hormonal changes and certain medications. Note that there are no specific foods that affect IBS, and the factors that affect each person may be different. So, make a “food diary” to help you determine which foods affect you.
Irritable bowel syndrome and exercise
Even if you don’t like to exercise, especially when your symptoms flare up, it can still be good for you. Physical activity can help you digest, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Start with low-intensity ones that won’t affect your digestive tract, and go to the bathroom before each exercise session.
VIII. Medications for diarrhea
If you have symptoms of diarrhea, some medications may be helpful. These include loperamide to slow down bowel movements, (e.g., abciximide, celebrex).
IX. Medications for constipation
Over-the-counter medications are recommended to soften stool, such as fiber supplements or polyethylene glycol. If these medications do not work you can use to stimulate intestinal fluid secretion such as linaclotide and lubiprostone.
X. Psychotherapy
If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, you may feel depressed or avoid social situations. Then you need to receive psychotherapy. You need to talk to a counselor who can help you reduce your stress with your condition and teach you how to manage your emotions so that your condition gets better.
Eleven: Make more time
Consider trying meditation, deep breathing, or other relaxation techniques. There’s not a lot of research here, but if they can help you manage stress, it’s a good idea. You can try it and see if it works.
12. Irritable bowel syndrome: Long-term prognosis
Irritable bowel syndrome is an ongoing condition, and your symptoms may stop for a while and then flare up again. Keep a personal diary of food, feelings and symptoms, which can help identify triggers. Symptoms usually do not get worse over time. Irritable bowel syndrome is not life-threatening and does not lead to more serious illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease or cancer.