Ira

Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation
Complications	N/A
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, possibly gut-brain axis dysfunction
Risks	Stress, diet, infection
Diagnosis	Rome IV criteria, exclusion of other conditions
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Dietary changes, medications, psychotherapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by a group of symptoms that typically occur together, including abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Signs and Symptoms

IBS is primarily characterized by:

• Abdominal pain or cramping, often relieved by a bowel movement
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two
• Mucus in the stool

The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person and may fluctuate over time.

Causes

The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but several factors may contribute to the condition:

• Gut-brain axis dysfunction: Abnormalities in the communication between the brain and the gut may play a role.
• Intestinal motility: Altered movement of the intestines can lead to symptoms.
• Visceral hypersensitivity: Increased sensitivity of the intestines to pain.
• Infections: A history of severe gastroenteritis may increase the risk.
• Microbiome changes: Alterations in the gut bacteria may contribute.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the risk of developing IBS:

• Age: IBS is more common in people under 50.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop IBS.
• Family history: A family history of IBS may increase risk.
• Mental health issues: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are associated with IBS.

Diagnosis

IBS is diagnosed based on symptoms and by ruling out other conditions. The Rome IV criteria are commonly used, which include:

• Recurrent abdominal pain, on average, at least one day per week in the last three months, associated with two or more of the following:

 * Related to defecation
 * Associated with a change in frequency of stool
 * Associated with a change in form (appearance) of stool

Treatment

Treatment for IBS focuses on relieving symptoms and may include:

• Dietary changes: Such as a low FODMAP diet, increased fiber intake, or avoiding trigger foods.
• Medications: Including antispasmodics, laxatives, or antidiarrheal agents.
• Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of therapy may help.
• Probiotics: May help balance gut bacteria.

Prognosis

IBS is a chronic condition that can significantly affect quality of life, but it does not lead to more serious diseases such as cancer. Management of symptoms can improve quality of life.

See Also

• Gastroenterology
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Functional gastrointestinal disorders

External Links

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - IBS