5 Signs Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
July 02, 2024
The symptoms of IBS can be embarrassing, but you don't have to suffer in silence. IBS is more common than you think, especially in women under age 45. Up to one in five adults in the United States experiences irritable bowel syndrome at some point in their lives. Could you be one of them?
What Is IBS?
IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is a chronic condition caused by problems in the large intestine.
Doctors describe IBS as a functional disorder, meaning that there's a problem in bowel function that appears to be unrelated to organic disease. Those of us afflicted by the malady might be more apt to call it "dysfunctional," however. Its symptoms range from annoying and embarrassing to downright disabling: Some people afflicted with chronic diarrhea are so worried about getting to a bathroom on time that they withdraw from normal social activities. But although IBS can cause considerable discomfort, it doesn't cause permanent intestinal damage or lead to serious illness.
The other good news is that IBS may respond well to stress reduction measures and changes in diet and exercise.
Health experts have not been able to find an exact physical cause for IBS. It is often thought that stress is one cause. Stress may make IBS symptoms worse. The symptoms of IBS may be constant, or they can come and go. There may even be times when it seems your tummy woes have disappeared. Then IBS symptoms flare up again.
What Are Symptoms Of IBS?
Some of the symptoms of IBS include:
1. Abdominal Pain
The most common complaint among people with IBS is abdominal pain or cramping. The discomfort frequently starts shortly after eating and may go away after a bowel movement. But that is not always the case.
2. Diarrhea or Constipation
Bouts of diarrhea and constipation, or sometimes fluctuating between the two states, are other common symptoms. People with IBS often feel they need to stay home or near a bathroom for these reasons.
3. Bloating
IBS can cause bloating or stomach swelling to the point you can’t fit into your normal clothes. So if you find yourself reaching for elastic-waist pants after eating, it could be a sign of IBS.
4. Excessive Gas
Perhaps the most disturbing symptom of IBS is uncontrollable gassiness. Publicly passing gas can be humiliating. Fear of “letting one go,” or discomfort from suppressing a necessary biological function, can make socializing difficult.
5. Mucus in Stool
It is normal to pass a small amount of mucus in your stool. However, people who have IBS may notice increased amounts of mucus in their stool.
Concerned your symptoms mean you might have IBS? If you have been experiencing digestive distress three times per month for three months, or you’ve been suffering from symptoms for at least six months, talk to your doctor.
How Is IBS Diagnosed?
Doctors can usually diagnose IBS just by taking inventory of a patient's symptoms. Your doctor or a specialist in digestive disorders (gastroenterologist) may also want to check your blood or stool for other possible causes of the symptoms, such as parasitic infections or diabetes.
Doctors can't diagnose IBS with a test, however, certain exams may help rule out other diseases like colon cancer. Tests may include:
- Stool sampling
- Blood tests
- X-rays
- Colonoscopy
You should see your primary doctor or a doctor specializing in gastrointestinal services if you are experiencing IBS symptoms. A gastroenterologist, a doctor that specializes in the digestive system, can help determine what factors have the most significant impact on your gut health and the treatments that will help you feel better. Improve your quality of life by finding a doctor today.
What Causes IBS?
The exact cause of IBS is not known, however, it's clear that multiple factors play a role, such as:
- Certain foods
- Increased stress levels
- Fluctuating hormones during menstrual cycles
- Depression and other mental health conditions
How Do You Treat IBS?
Many people manage symptoms using the top tactics for relieving IBS. Treatments like nutritional counseling, lifestyle adjustments and medication can make a big difference. With the appropriate medical care, you can live a healthy, normal life, without pain.
