Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the function of the digestive tract with chronic complaints such as abdominal pain, irregular secretion (diarrhea, constipation, or both alternately) and bloating. Since the disease has no characteristic symptoms related to it alone, it is more difficult to diagnose it, the diagnosis is primarily based on an exclusion.
The exact causes of its development are unknown. One reason for this may be the disruption of information exchange between the brain and the intestine. The neurotransmitter material, serotonin (which is also responsible for controlling the intestinal function and pain sensation, is suspected to have a key role in the development of irritable bowel syndrome). This explanation is supported by the hormone under the bowel movement disorder and the fact that in many cases normal digestive processes are also painful.
What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
Symptoms of the disease may vary considerably in individuals and may sometimes imitate other illnesses. The most common digestive complaints are:
- cramps and other painful sensations in the abdomen and stomach that may be alleviated after defecation
- abdominal tightness, fullness feeling
- diarrhea or constipation, or both alternately
- the consistency of defecation may vary (hard, thin or loose)
- bloating and loud, audible intestinal movement
- vomiting (often suddenly, without nausea)
Common non-digestive complaints:
- psychosomatic or mental illnesses (fear, depression)
- it is difficult for the patient to concentrate
- sleep disorders
- headache, migraine, back pain
Complaints can often be triggered or strengthen by physical and mental traumas (stress, anger) and bad eating habits (the eating itself or the way you eat).
Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome
Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome is primarily based on medical history, physical and stool specimens. It is important that at least two symptoms of the gastrointestinal complaints mentioned above should be present in determining the exact disease.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy. The process examines the lower part of the colon with a thin elastic tube.
- endoscopic examination (colonoscopy), with which the entire intestinal tract is could be screened.
- abdominal ultrasound examination (abdominal sonography)
- lactose intolerance test, which is the inability to digest lactose.
- laboratory blood tests for celiac disease (celiac sensitivity) to a susceptibility to a cereal protein, which also produces symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome.
Is irritable bowel syndrome preventable?
In the case of milder symptoms, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be treated daily with some dietary changes. This means briefly to avoid consuming foods that worsen syndrome but increase foods that relieve the symptoms.
- drink enough water
- consumption of essential fatty acids
- foods rich in fiber
- increase the level of digestive enzymes
- consumption of probiotics
- beware of dairy products
- make sure what foods sensitivity we have
What types of treatment can be used?
Since it is not entirely clear what exactly is in the background of irritable bowel syndrome, treatment is primarily used to relieve the symptoms so that the patient can live a full life.
In most cases, mild symptoms can be effectively restored by appropriate stress management, diet, and lifestyle modification. However, if the symptoms are moderate or severe, then more than lifestyle changes are needed.
- Fibre replacement is an effective aid in eliminating constipation.
- You can stop diarrhea by taking supplements without a prescription.
- Avoiding bloating foods: In case of disturbing abdominal bloating, it is recommended to reduce the consumption of sparkling soft drinks, salads, raw vegetables, fruits, turnip, cauliflower, and broccoli.
- Calcium antagonist medicines: the non-absorbable calcium antagonists inhibit cramps and balance the frequency of bowel movements, but they do not have cardiovascular side effects.
It is recommended that if you experience the mentioned symptoms, you should visit your gastroenterologist who will help you diagnose the symptoms as well as discussing the further steps.