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Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Condition Not to Be Underestimated

Writer's picture: Doc On CallDoc On Call

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that manages to be both bothersome and mysterious. If your gut were a coworker, it would be the one constantly complaining, even without apparent reasons: hypersensitive and challenging to deal with.

What Exactly Is IBS?

Let's start with the definition: IBS is a chronic disorder characterized by recurring symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both). The peculiarity is that there are no detectable structural or biochemical abnormalities, making its diagnosis a true challenge.

Think of it as software that malfunctions on perfectly intact hardware: the issue is not with the "machine" but the "program."

Why Does It Happen?

The exact causes are still not entirely clear, but we know that several factors can contribute:

  • Altered intestinal motility: the colon may contract too much or too little, causing diarrhea or constipation, respectively.

  • Hyperactivity of the enteric nervous system: your gut, often called the "second brain," can overreact to normal stimuli.

  • Gut dysbiosis: an imbalance in the gut microbiota can worsen symptoms.

  • Stress and anxiety: the connections between the brain and gut are bidirectional, so a stressed mind can negatively impact the gastrointestinal tract.

  • Food sensitivities: certain foods (hello, lactose and gluten!) can trigger symptoms in predisposed individuals.

Symptoms: IBS as a Drama Artist

IBS is known for its "dramatic" symptomatology:

  • Abdominal pain: often described as cramps or stabbing pain, typically relieved by bowel movements.

  • Altered bowel habits: ranging from sudden bouts of diarrhea to days of stubborn constipation.

  • Bloating and flatulence: your abdomen can turn into a hot air balloon after a heavy meal.

  • Feeling of incomplete evacuation: IBS loves leaving you with the sensation of "unfinished business."

Diagnosis: When IBS Plays Mysterious

There are no specific tests to diagnose IBS, so doctors must rule out other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), celiac disease, or intestinal infections. Key tools include:

  • Rome IV criteria: defining the diagnosis based on the frequency and type of symptoms.

  • Blood and stool tests: useful for ruling out other pathologies.

  • Colonoscopy: necessary in the presence of alarming symptoms (blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, anemia).

Treatment: A Tailor-Made Therapy

Treating IBS requires a personalized approach because every irritable bowel is unique and somewhat capricious. Options include:

  • Dietary modifications: following a low FODMAP diet (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) can significantly reduce symptoms.

  • Medications: antispasmodics, laxatives, or antidiarrheals can be helpful depending on the predominant symptoms.

  • Probiotics: help restore the balance of gut flora.

  • Stress management: techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive-behavioral therapy can work wonders.

Living with IBS

With proper medical support and a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to effectively manage IBS symptoms. Remember: your gut is not an enemy but a complicated friend that needs a little extra attention. Treat it well, and with a pinch of patience, even the most irritable bowel can find its peace.


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The Health Guard S.T.P.

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