subject: A Brief Overview On Irritable Bowel Syndrome [print this page] When I was about 20, I started experiencing intense abdominal pain, followed by severe constipation. This is not something that most people will discuss in polite company, but as such, most people won't bring up similar problems with their doctor, either.
The truth is, these symptoms were a mark of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, commonly referred to as just IBS. I should have known I would develop these issues eventually, as it is known to be hereditary, and both my parents have similar discomfort from time to time, which they had also passed on to two of my brothers.
Irritable Bowel does not exclusively cause constipation and pain, however. It tends to manifest differently in separate individuals, though it is the same disease all the same. Loose, watery stools can also be present, and there are varying levels of bloating and gas. Either way, it is an unpleasant condition to live with.
The disease does not always come by heredity, however. Medical professionals know that is can come as the body's reaction after an infection or during major stress, physical or psychological, such as a death in the family or another serious medical condition.
No one knows exactly the mechanism that triggers IBS in this body, but researchers and medical professionals have isolated some of the key influences--especially diet. What's more, sometimes IBS can be mistakenly diagnosed in place of another medical problem, so be sure to closely consult with your doctor about your symptoms, even if it is embarrassing.
It may be helpful to make notes of your symptoms day by day in the weeks preceding your appointment so that you can give your physician a more complete account of what you are facing.
The pain associated with IBS can sometimes be severe, involving serious cramping and bloat, which is not always relieved by over-the-counter medicines. It can even interfere with your daily life. If your condition begins to do so, it's time to contact a pain management specialist near you to discuss a treatment approach that can help you cope with your symptoms.
There is currently no cure for the syndrome, but the more you are educated and the more you develop a relationship with your doctor and pain management specialist, the better off you will be.
As I mentioned before, every patient manifests slightly differently, so what alleviates pain and discomfort in one person may exacerbate your own condition. For example, I take a fiber supplement, while one of my brothers has been ordered to avoid high-fiber staples in his diet. Managing this disease can be difficult, but it can be done.
