Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder which can cause troublesome and persistent symptoms. More than half of all patients attending gastroeneterology outpatient clinics have IBS. A third of people in Britian have occasional symptoms of IBS, and 1 in 10 have symptoms bad enough to require medical attention. Women tend to seek medical attention for it more often than men, but the prevalence in men and women is similar. IBS commonly starts between 15 and 40 years of age, but may occur at any age.

Symptoms

These differ between patients and may vary from time to time, but all patients will have at least some of these:

• Abdominal pain
• Fullness and bloating
• Alteration in bowel habit

Though some of these symptoms may be embarrassing or distressing, it is important to tell the doctor about them. Worrying in silence may make them feel even worse. Remember, they happen to a lot of people.

Causes

IBS symptoms appear to be due to an increased sensitivity of the bowel, which results in spasm of the bowel muscle. IBS is a disorder of the way in which the bowel functions. For this reason, it is sometimes referred to as a "functional bowel disorder".The cause of IBS is not fully understood yet.

Treatment & prevention

Although the irritable bowel syndrome may produce troublesome symptoms, it does not lead to serious complications. A knowledge of what provokes an attack may help individuals control their symptoms more effectively and prevent attacks, or at least help them to cope better.

Advice on diet, eating habits and lifestyle helps many IBS sufferers. Foods which are high in fat often provoke symptoms and should be avoided. Rich or spicy foods can also cause attacks. Large, infrequent meals challenge the digestion much more than small, frequent ones, which often help to reduce symptoms.

Patients who relate their symptoms to stress or anxiety usually benefit from a better understanding of the condition. Sometimes counselling in stress management is helpful.

Antispasmodic drugs help some patients, but response is variable. Constipation may require additional laxative treatment under medical supervision. Diarrhoea can also be controlled, particularly if it is limiting activity, mobility and lifestyle.

Despite considerable research, the cause of irritable bowel syndrome remains in-completely understood and there is, as yet, no cure.

Recommended web sites

IBS

IBS