Ibs Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, often referred to as IBS

, is a condition that is often difficult to diagnose because its symptoms often accompany other diseases. Typical symptoms that accompany IBS include: bloating, gas, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and constipation. Because these symptoms are so commonplace, and accompany many other gastro-intestinal conditions, IBS sometimes can be hard to diagnose.

IBS is one of the most common disorders. Doctors and researchers distinguish IBS from the others not by its symptoms, but by what IBS isn't -- that is, by eliminating the symptoms of other conditions. For instance, unlike colitis or Crohn's, IBS is not characterized by an inflamed colon. It doesn't increases the risk of colorectal cancer either.

Because the symptoms themselves are so varied - indeed sometimes contradictory, such as alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea - it is difficult to narrow down the presence of IBS. However, it is a chronic condition - occasional cramping or gas is completely normal and doesn't merit a special name - and so it receives a specific tag.

As semi-digested food (called "chyme") moves into the colon, where water is extracted and helpful bacteria create vitamins B and K, the intestinal muscles contract to keep it going. We're normally not aware of that contraction, called peristalsis. In IBS, those contractions can be spasmodic and stronger than normal, causing food to move too quickly or too slowly. The first often leads to diarrhea, the second to constipation.

There are research studies demonstrate that some people are more sensitive to the peristaltic movement. When gas or bloating stretches their bowels, they become acutely aware of the effects. Since they are hypersensitive to the stretching, they become more stressed which aggravates the condition. Oftentimes, women are more likely to develop IBS especially during periods of heightened hormones.

Since diet plays a role - some experience IBS after consuming chocolate, milk, or alcohol - it is possible to modify the symptoms in some cases. Reducing intake is an obvious method, but diet alterations help, too. Eating yogurt, for example, which contains organisms that break down lactose sugars, can help counter the effects of drinking milk for those who are lactose intolerant.

IBS is also aggravated by anxiety and stress. Reducing stress levels can dramatically help eliminate, or reduce, the symptoms of IBS. Unfortunately, reducing stress is much easier said than done. The first step is often understanding what is causing your stress so that you can better manage your environment.

In the United States, 1 in every 5 Americans have IBS. However, less than 50% of the people with IBS get properly diagnosed and receive treatment for the condition. This is because IBS can be easily confused with the usual upset stomach. The good news is that IBS is not a life threatening condition. However, if the symptoms persist, it's a good idea to see a doctor.

by: Shawn Onseo

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