Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is a common disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). It is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, which means it causes symptoms without visible damage or disease in the digestive tract. People with IBS may experience chronic discomfort and irregular bowel habits, but it doesn’t cause permanent harm to the intestines or lead to serious diseases like cancer.

What are the types of IBS?

IBS is classified into different types based on the predominant symptom:

• IBS-D (IBS with Diarrhea): Primarily diarrhea and loose stools.
• IBS-C (IBS with Constipation): Primarily constipation and infrequent bowel movements.
• IBS-M (IBS Mixed): Alternating between diarrhea and constipation.

What are the common symptoms of IBS?

Symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping (often relieved by passing stool)
• Bloating or gas
• Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both
• Mucus in the stool
• Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
• Changes in the appearance or frequency of bowel movements

These symptoms tend to flare up and then subside, and can be triggered by certain foods, stress, or hormonal changes.

What causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute:

• Intestinal Muscle Contractions: Stronger or weaker-than-normal contractions in the intestines can cause diarrhea or constipation.
• Nervous System Sensitivity: An abnormal response between the brain and gut may cause greater sensitivity to digestive processes.
• Infections: Some people develop IBS after a severe bout of gastroenteritis (stomach flu) or food poisoning.
• Stress: Emotional stress can trigger or worsen IBS symptoms.
• Hormonal Changes: IBS is more common in women, and many experience worsened symptoms during menstruation.

How is IBS different from IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)?

IBS and IBD are different conditions. While IBS affects the function of the digestive tract without causing inflammation or visible damage, IBD (like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) involves chronic inflammation that can cause permanent damage to the intestines.

How is IBS diagnosed?

IBS is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and by ruling out other conditions. Your healthcare provider may use:

• Medical history and symptom evaluation
• Blood tests or stool tests to rule out infections or celiac disease
• Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy if there are red flags like weight loss or bleeding to check for other issues

There is no single test for IBS, so diagnosis is often made by excluding other potential causes.

Can IBS be cured?

There is no cure for IBS, but it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications. Treatments focus on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include:

• Dietary changes: Avoiding trigger foods, adding fiber, or following a low-FODMAP diet.
• Medications: For diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain.
• Stress management: Relaxation techniques, therapy, or exercise can help reduce symptoms.

What are some common IBS triggers?

IBS triggers can vary, but some common ones include:

• Certain foods: Fatty or fried foods, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and gas-producing foods like beans.
• Stress: Emotional and physical stress can exacerbate symptoms.
• Hormonal fluctuations: Some people experience symptom changes with their menstrual cycle.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or if your symptoms affect your daily life, it's important to see a healthcare provider. Additionally, if you experience red-flag symptoms like blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or severe pain, seek medical attention.

If you develop IBS symptoms, visit the experienced surgeons at Sacramento Colon and Rectal Surgery Medical Group for an expert diagnosis and effective treatment. Call the office nearest you to schedule an appointment or reach out online.