Have you ever experienced abdominal discomfort, irregular bowel movements, or changes in your digestive patterns?

Read this article to gain a deeper understanding of IBS, its causes, its symptoms, and how to cope with it.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome - IBS: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is not really a disease, it is a disorder/a malfunction in which the large intestines do not function properly. It can have many conflicting symptoms, hence it is called a syndrome.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

IBS is a chronic digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by a cluster of symptoms that may vary from person to person, making it a challenging condition to diagnose and manage effectively.

Some people suffer from diarrhea and some people suffer from constipation.

People start getting stressed and lonely.

It is not contagious, not a cancer factor.

It causes stress and discomfort in people and affects the sex life of people

Whatever the reason may be, the actual cause is yet to be ascertained, although several factors or triggers have been reported to be responsible for it.

It is incurable because it is a syndrome, not a disease, although it can be controlled.

It is also called mucus colitis, functional bowel disease, spastic colon, etc.

Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS Causes):

What cause IBS - There is no fix and specific reason for this, yet the following factors or triggers may be responsible for this (causes of IBS):-

Food: Foods with high-fat content, gluten, dairy products, fast food, tea, coffee, cola, chocolate, alcohol, smoking/tobacco, etc.
Stress, anxiety, nervousness, and depression.
Weak immune system.
Heredity.
Infections of gastrointestinal bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, etc. (enteritis).
Age and sex: After adolescence and during menstruation women are more likely affected. Sometimes even young children get affected.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS Symptoms):

Mild pain in the abdomen (IBS stomach pain), mainly in the lower back.
Cramps/torsion, abdominal bloating/gas.
These symptoms decrease after defecation.
Sometimes constipation sometimes diarrhea.
After defecation, the stomach seems not completely empty or clean.
Changes in bowel movements - more than 3 times a day or less than 3 times a week.
Anxiety, restlessness, depression, insomnia, etc.
All diagnostic tests are normal.

However, this is not harmful, but the patient's daily routine is affected, may be stressed or depressed, with a reduced ability to work.

Symptoms or signs of IBS vary from one person to another, maybe more / less, some people may have only constipation or diarrhea and some people may have both.

Sometimes all symptoms stop but may recur after a few months.

IBS Symptoms in Women

Signs of IBS in women may be -

Abdominal pain or discomfort
Bloating and gas
Diarrhea or constipation (or alternating between both)
Changes in stool consistency
Urgency to have a bowel movement
Mucus in stools
A feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
Fatigue and low energy
Anxiety or depression, often triggered by digestive symptoms
Food intolerances or sensitivities
Abdominal cramps or spasms (IBS stomach cramps), often relieved after bowel movements
Symptoms that worsen during menstruation

Please note that symptoms of IBS in women can vary in intensity and may overlap with other gastrointestinal conditions.

SYMPTOMS OF IBS

IBS can be classified on the basis of symptoms as follows: -

IBS with Diarrhoea (IBS-D): -

Sudden discharge of stools, thin/liquid stools, mucus or mucus with stools, abnormalities in the movement of the intestines - stomach emptying three to four times a day, Which can cause dehydration.

IBS with Constipation (IBS-C): -

Stress for bowel movements may cause abdominal pain; Dry, thick, and hard stools; and Decreased bowel movement frequency (3 times a week or less) which can cause toxins to accumulate in the body.

Alternative (IBS-A) / Mixed IBS (IBS-M): -

Constipation sometimes diarrhea.

Unsubtyped IBS (IBS-U): -

Different from the above three types.

Identification / Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome:

It can be identified only by symptoms, any kind of investigation does not reveal the exact one.

Treatment of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome):

A sure cure for ending this syndrome is not available as it is not a disease, but its symptoms and the discomfort caused by them can be reduced.

Consulting Physician and allopathic medicines:

The doctor should be consulted at the beginning of this malfunction to prevent further progression.

Physicians prescribe medicines based on symptoms such as reducing stomach pain (antispasmodic/antidepressant), preventing diarrhea (Alosetron, etc.), and removing constipation (Tegaserod maleate, etc.).

But if taken for a long time, they are habit-forming, they can get used to it.

Alternative treatment:

Acupuncture
Hypnotism
Yoga/meditation
Abdominal massage
Homeopathy
Ayurvedic/Herbal Remedies

Please use these measures only under the supervision of a qualified doctor or trainer.

Acupuncture:

It helps in reducing stress, relaxing the body, and reducing pain.

Hypnotism:

This also reduces stress.

Yoga and Meditation:

Yoga reduces stress and increases the effectiveness of other measures.

Meditation (Somato-emotional therapy) is a highly effective method for mental balance, mainly Automeditation or Self Meditation.

Abdominal Massage:

The abdominal massage balances the movement of the intestines.

In a comfortable position, bend your knees and sit on the ground, massage the abdominal muscles with your hands and fingers, starting from the lower abdomen to the ribs.

Homeopathy:

Useful to reduce stress as well as to reduce the speed and irritation of the intestines.

Ayurvedic/Herbal Remedies:

It has no side effects, natural and effective remedy, and has become very popular for the treatment of IBS.

Used as herbal tea/decoction/extracts/husks etc. or liquid medicine/capsules such as peppermint.

Ayurvedic liver tonics, digestion regulators, antioxidants, probiotics supplements, etc. are effective in the management of IBS symptoms.

These drugs smooth the functioning of the intestines, regulate bowel movements, and prevent irritation.

Note: Contact us for personal advice related to two very effective methods - Meditation (Automeditaion) and Ayurvedic medicine for successful control of IBS.

Moderate lifestyle:

For IBS, the most important thing to control is a balanced diet that suits your digestive system.

Diet may vary from person to person.

Eat more fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables (e.g. oranges and bananas for constipation)

Soluble Fiber Sources - Fruits and Vegetables
Insoluble fiber sources - whole grains, dry fruits, tomatoes, raisins, broccoli, cabbage, psyllium husk

Mealtime should be fixed.

Have your mood right during the meal.

Drink plenty of water.

If diarrhea occurs, take small meals at regular intervals.

If there is a problem with milk or milk products, then take a supplementary diet of calcium, protein, and vitamin B.

Stay away from these food items :

Fatty / fat-rich foods - A person with IBS should reduce fat intake by about 25% or even less.
Coffee (both decaffeinated and caffeinated).
Carbonated drinks.
alcohol.

How to self-control IBS:

First list the symptoms, because each person has different symptoms.
Now decide on the food, change the diet, and see which one is right for you, thereby reducing the above symptoms.
Do yoga/meditation, and proper relaxation/rest to keep the mind calm and remove stress.
Work out regularly and get proper sleep.

Coping with IBS

Living with IBS can be challenging, but it is possible to lead a fulfilling life with the condition. Here are some tips for coping with IBS:

Keep a food diary to identify trigger foods.
Stay hydrated to prevent constipation.
Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
Discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.
Seek support from friends and family.

Some FACTS / TRUTH associated with IBS:

Before 1992, there was not much information about this syndrome in people.

IBS is not a life-threatening condition, this syndrome is not fatal, i.e., it does not cause death.
About 20–30% of people have this problem, but usually, people do not discuss it, when it should be discussed.
Unknown reason: No clear reason for this has been revealed so far, so the exact solution has not been found.
Conflicting symptoms - Constipation or diarrhea can occur both, every person may have different IBS symptoms and treatment.
Choose Your Food - Determine the food that suits you.

CURE IBS NATURALLY - CLICK HERE

PICTURE SOURCES - GOOGLE, CANVA, AND FREEPIK

IBS and Vitamins / Salts:

Since the symptoms of IBS vary from person to person, the effect of vitamins also varies from person to person.

1. Vitamin C or ascorbic acid -

Those who have diarrhea should take vitamin C in small amounts as it is a laxative, increasing diarrhea.

2. Calcium -

It can cause both constipation and diarrhea, so should be taken according to your body, the maximum amount is up to 500 mg. It is more useful with vitamin D.

Calcium carbonate - It is good for diarrhea (IBS-D).
Calcium citrate - It is good in constipation (IBS-C).

3. Iron -

This can cause constipation, and it also reduces the absorption of calcium.

Keep these in mind when taking vitamin and salt supplements -

The quantity should be balanced, not too much.
Do not take it on an empty stomach, take it with food, mainly vitamin C.
Pharmacists can be consulted for vitamin supplementation.
Keep taking different vitamins.

Note: Contact us for personal advice related to two very effective methods - Meditation (Automeditaion) and Ayurvedic medicine for successful control of IBS or IBS cure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IBS is a complex gastrointestinal disorder that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and management strategies outlined in this article, individuals with IBS can take action to improve their digestive health and overall well-being.

FAQs

Q1. Is IBS a life-threatening condition?

No, IBS is not a life-threatening condition. However, it can significantly affect a person's quality of life and daily activities.

Q2. Can IBS be cured?

There is no cure for IBS, but its symptoms can be managed effectively through dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as medications.

Q3. Are there specific trigger foods for IBS?

Trigger foods can vary from person to person. Common triggers include dairy, gluten, and high-fat foods.

Q4. Is stress management essential for managing IBS?

Yes, stress management is crucial for managing IBS, as stress can exacerbate symptoms.

Q5. When should I seek medical help for IBS?

If you experience persistent or severe symptoms of IBS, it is advisable to consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Symptoms, Causes, and Management