Things to Know About Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable Bowl Syndrome
People suffering from IBS syndrome may have symptoms including:
IBS is a common disorder that mainly affects your large intestine (colon.) The health issues that many people suffer from IBS disorder are abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, bloating, and constipation etc. It’s a chronic condition that is managed for a long period of time. .
IBS affects more than one in ten people. Women are more prone to suffer from IBS syndrome than men. Many people are afflicted with this syndrome in their late teens to early 40s.
Symptoms of IBS
People suffering from IBS syndrome may have symptoms including:
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Constipation alternating with diarrhea
- Belly pains or cramps, usually in the lower half of the belly.
- A belly that sticks out
- Mucus in the stool
- Stools – Harder or looser than normal (pellets or flat ribbon stools)
Stress can worsen these symptoms.
Cause of IBS Syndrome
The real cause of IBS syndrome still isn’t clear. But it’s considered that the main causes of IBS syndrome are – too much stress and an unhealthy diet. Moreover, there are no specific lab tests that can diagnose IBS syndrome.
Treatment for IBS Syndrome
Nearly all people suffering from IBS can get help, but no single treatment works for everyone. You and your doctor need to work together to find the right treatment for your symptoms.
One of the best things you can do to manage your IBS syndrome is to reduce your stress level. It can be difficult but try to manage your stress through counseling, therapy and medications. Make sure to have a healthy diet. Look out for foods that can worsen your condition and stop eating them. You need to know your triggers, make some changes in your lifestyle and take some medications to improve your condition.
Over The Counter medications for IBS Syndrome
You can try OTC medications for symptoms including cramps, bloating, or pain. Fiber supplements such as psyllium (Metamucil, etc.), Antispasmodic medicines such as peppermint oil might help you to manage your IBS syndrome. Probiotics also work for some people. You can also look for medications containing Bifidobacteriuminfantis (Align, VSL#3, etc.). If you have severe constipation, you can also try a laxative like polyethylene glycol (Miralax, PEG, etc.). If you have diarrhea then loperamide (Imodium, etc.) might help you.
Make sure to consult your health care provider if situation gets worse. Your prescriber may recommend you specific medicines and doses that you should take to treat IBS.
