Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is used to describe a group of symptoms that occur together.  Abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel function (constipation, diarrhea, or alternating pattern of constipation and diarrhea) characterize irritable bowel syndrome sufferers.

Doctors call IBS a functional disorder.  This means there is nothing wrong with the physical structure of the bowels.  Instead it is a problem with the way the bowels work.  In IBS the nerves that control contractions in the bowels are extra sensitive to certain kinds of food, hormones, or stress.

How is IBS diagnosed?

There are defined criteria for the diagnosis of IBS.  At least 12 weeks or more, which need not be consecutive, in the preceeding 12 months, of abdominal discomfort or pain that has two out of three features:

• Relieved with defecation; and/or
• Onset associated with a change in frequency of stool; and/or
• Onset associated with a change in form (appearance) of stool.

The doctor checks to be sure that the symptoms are not due to other causes.   Various blood tests, x-rays, and examinations, such as sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy may be done.

Who is affected by IBS?

The impact of these symptoms is significant.  One in five adult Americans, 40 million people, may suffer from these symptoms.  IBS is the second leading cause of work-related absenteeism after the common cold.

What is the relationship with stress?

The gut has its own nervous system.  Signals are sent to the brain.  Factors that cause stress are processsed by the brain.  Signals are sent between the brain and the gut.  This can make the gut more irritable and disrupt its function.   This brain-gut connection confirms there is a physical basis for the relationship between emotions (such as stress) and IBS symptoms.  This is why doctors try to help IBS patients deal with psychologic stress.  The Digestive Health Program was developed to complement the physician who is treating irritable bowel syndrome.

How is IBS treated?

Mild symptoms may be treated by eliminating food and drink that make the symptoms worse.  Avoiding coffee/caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods, and dairy products is suggested.  If something seems to make it worse, eliminating it from the diet may be effective.  Some medications may cause symptoms as well.  Check with your doctor to help determine if medications may be a part of the problem.

Moderate symptoms that interfere sometimes with work, school, or social life may require keeping a diary.  Keeping a list of your symptoms and associating what you are doing at the time of the symptoms can be very helpful in assessing the problem.   Behavioral treatment for moderate to severe symptoms may include relaxation therapy, hypnosis, biofeedback, and cognitive-behavioral treatment.  These kinds of treatment are recommended to help you cope better with your symptoms.

Severe symptoms may require treatment with antidepressants.  These drugs act as pain relievers.  They work by blocking or reducing pain sensations in your gut from reaching the brain.

For more information visit the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.

06/26/2006