Irritable bowel syndrome is a common digestive disorder that affects the intestinal lining. Data shows that in the United States up to 15% of the population suffers from irritable bowels. This disease targets young people with many of them diagnosed in their early 30s. Females are more likely to have IBS and experts are not sure why.
What Is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome causes the lining of the intestines to become inflamed. This disease is sometimes called spastic or irritable colon. Irritable bowel disease is different from Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis. These diseases are autoimmune disorders, which means that the immune system attacks itself. Irritable bowel syndrome is not an autoimmune disorder.
This inflammation usually causes stomach cramping or burning sensations in the abdomen. These experiences are different for everyone. Some people experience mild symptoms while others are more severe requiring hospitalization. Many times symptoms come on without warning.
What Are the Symptoms of IBS?
These stomach pains are usually followed by frequent bathroom visits. Some people experience constipation while others diarrhea. Then some people alternate between both. This condition is often present with other ailments in the body. People who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome may also experience joint disease, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia.
People experience symptoms for at least six months before receiving a diagnosis. This very common digestive disease affects between 10-15% of the American population. Symptoms often begin when a person reaches early adulthood. Although children and older adults still experience this disorder. A few common symptoms are:
Stomach Cramping
Constipation
Diarrhea
Gas
Bloating
Nausea
Foam in stool
What Causes IBS?
Experts are not able to pinpoint the exact causes. High volumes of stress may induce this disease. Stress releases the hormone cortisol which when activated at high levels for long periods of time causes organ damage. Others have had their IBS come about after being ill with a virus or bacterial infection.
It’s difficult to determine why some people are more susceptible than others. There is not a direct genetic link, but it is common in families. Traumas and injuries have also been shown to trigger IBS. It does not seem that these symptoms damage the bowels or intestines. Also, it does not increase the risk of colon cancer.
How Can I Treat IBS?
This lifelong ailment is not curable, but it is treatable. Experts recommend that you initially start by examining your diet and lifestyle choices. Some people experience food intolerances and never know it. Eliminating unhealthy or triggering foods can provide some relief. Incorporating more fiber-rich foods is nourishing to the gut.
Fostering a healthy diet and exercise regimen will ease many of your symptoms. Meditation and yoga are often used to manage stress and IBS. Doctors may recommend laxatives and anti-diarrhea medications to help treat the symptoms. Irritable bowel syndrome affects millions of people. Though incurable, it is possible to achieve remission.
