April is IBS Awareness Month. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders affecting people around the world. It affects 10% to 15% of the global population according to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD). The numbers are the same in the United States as reported by the American College of Gastroenterology.

While it is not linked to serious or life-threatening disease, IBS can greatly reduce the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic abdominal pain, abnormal bowel habits and the other symptoms that IBS can cause.

What Is IBS?

IBS is classified as a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder. This means that the digestive tract functions abnormally, but the condition does not cause damage to the GI tract. However, it does cause a range of symptoms varying from mild to severe. Symptoms can include:

  • Abdominal bloating
  • Abdominal discomfort, pain or cramping
  • Changes in bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation or both)
  • Excessive gas
  • Mucus in stool

There are three types of irritable bowel syndrome: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) and IBS-Mixed (constipation and diarrhea). Currently, there are no tests that can confirm an IBS diagnosis. IBS is diagnosed based on symptoms and ruling out other possible conditions. 

What Causes IBS?

We don’t know exactly what causes irritable bowel syndrome. IBS research points to a number of reasons, such as gastrointestinal hypersensitivity, motility issues, dysfunction in the gut-brain axis and gut microbiome imbalance. There is also evidence that stress, anxiety and trauma (specifically childhood trauma) are linked to IBS occurrence. IBS can also arise after an infection: a subtype known as post-infectious IBS. This subtype can often resolve without treatment. (Although, this might take years.) 

What we do know is that IBS:

  • Affects females more than males.
  • Occurs more often in people under 50 years of age.
  • Is more likely in a person with a family history of IBS.
  • Is more common in people with a history of abuse, anxiety or stress.
  • Can occur after a bowel infection.

Living With IBS

Even though there may not be a cure for irritable bowel syndrome, there is a lot that can be done to reduce the severity and frequency of IBS symptoms for many sufferers. Lifestyle changes relating to gut health, mental health, and diet can help manage IBS symptoms or resolve them completely for some people. Many patients find that a combination of tactics is required to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.  

One of the most important ways to control IBS symptoms is to build and maintain a foundation of good health. That includes:

  • Eating a balanced diet with adequate fiber.
  • Ensuring proper hydration.
  • Daily physical activity.
  • Maintaining a healthy body weight.
  • Getting good-quality sleep.
  • Managing stress effectively.

Depending on what is causing the IBS, there are other areas that patients may need to focus their efforts. These can include:

  • Addressing gastrointestinal issues, such as gut bacteria imbalance or overgrowth.
  • Determining trigger foods via testing and/or an elimination diet under the guidance of a doctor or dietitian.
  • Learning relaxation techniques, such as breathwork, muscle relaxation and visualization.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy.
  • Seeking professional help for anxiety, depression or trauma.
  • Making life changes if your current lifestyle doesn’t allow you to effectively manage stress.

There are also medications and supplements that can help patients cope with IBS symptoms if lifestyle changes are not effective. They include fiber supplements; antidiarrheal, antispasmodic and pain medications; and certain antidepressants that can help reduce pain (even if you are not suffering from depression). 

It often takes patience, along with some trial and error. However, it is possible to live a full, healthy life with IBS. If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms or if your symptoms are getting worse, make an appointment with GastroIntestinal Specialists today. Don’t suffer unnecessarily from IBS symptoms.

The team at GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C., treats multiple conditions and diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Our board-certified physicians have more than 150 years of combined experience in providing quality care you can trust. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 631-9121 or visit gis.md.