Spastic colon

Spastic colon, also known as IBS, is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain, discomfort, bloating, and alteration of bowel habits. The term "spastic colon" is somewhat outdated and not all healthcare providers refer to this disorder by this term.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of a spastic colon are abdominal pain and cramping, which can be mild, moderate, or severe. Other symptoms can include bloating, gas, and alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation. Some people may also experience a sense of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement.

Causes

The exact cause of spastic colon is unknown. However, it is believed to be due to a combination of abnormal gastrointestinal (GI) tract movements, increased awareness of bodily functions, and a disruption in the communication between the brain and the GI tract.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a spastic colon is typically based on symptoms. The Rome IV criteria, which are commonly used to identify functional gastrointestinal disorders, require that patients have recurrent abdominal pain on average at least one day per week in the last three months, associated with two or more of the following criteria: related to defecation, associated with a change in frequency of stool, or associated with a change in form (appearance) of stool.

Treatment

Treatment for a spastic colon can include dietary modifications, medication, and psychological therapy. Dietary modifications can include increasing dietary fiber, eliminating gluten, or following a diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs).

See also

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Gastrointestinal tract
• Rome IV criteria

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