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Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS is a condition that affects the intestines – in many cases – causing significant discomfort, especially in the abdomen, stomach, and intestines.

Gas, bloating, and diarrhea are often seen and can cause serious difficulties in every-day-life. In some patients,  symptoms are improved following a bowel movement. There is no specific cure but many avenues, medication, and management options exist.

Patient education is extremely during the diagnostic process as well as a good relationship with your medical provider.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is often diagnosed after several other possible conditions affecting the intestines and stomach have been ruled out. It can also be referred to as Spastic Colon.

Some of the symptoms may appear to worsen in public places and in social interactions.

Worsening of symptoms may occur when one is nervous, anxious, concerned, stressed, or worried.

Classifications:

1.)  IBS-D  – Predominately diarrhea

2.)  IBS-C  – Predominately constipation

3.)  IBS-A   – Diarrhea and constipation alternate – a large amount of pain

4.)  IBS-PI  – Follows an infection

Symptoms:

–    Diarrhea
–    Constipation
–    Abdominal pain
–    Abdominal pressure
–    Flatulence
–    Fever
–    Chills
–    Bloating
–    Fibromyalgia
–    Headaches
–    Back pain

***  –  Some cases of psychological conditions may be more common with those with IBS

Possible Causes:

–    Immune response
–    Dietary
–    Food allergies
–    Illness
–    Infections
–    others

Treatment:

Diet

–   Patient may also be lactose intolerant
–   Patient may also have celiac disease
–   Fiber in some cases may be helpful

Medications

1.)  Stool softeners

2.)  Laxatives

.    polyethylene glycol
.    sorbitol
.    lactulose
.    polyethylene glycol

.   lubriprostone   [Amitiza]

3.)  Antidiarrheals

4.)  Antispasmodics

.    Hyoscyamine
.    Dicyclomine