How to Know if You Have Irritable Bowel SyndromeIrritable Bowel Syndrome: (Some Basics) Gastrointestinal diseases and conditions are being diagnosed at an alarming rate. While an increasingly poor diet certainly plays a large factor in this condition, emotional stress and anxiety is certainly equally to blame for the problem. Did you know that if you often have stomach cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation, you could have irritable bowel syndrome? (IBS) is a functional disorder of the large bowel, meaning the bowel doesn't work, or function, correctly. IBS is not a disease, but a group of symptoms.This problem, is hallmarked by symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the abdomen, often relieved by a bowel movement. Chronic diarrhea and constipation are very frequent and are typically accompanied by pain as well. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating, depression, and a feeling that you have not finished a bowel movement. The condition is also known to grow worse during periods of high emotional stress. Women with IBS often have more symptoms during their menstrual periods.
How will I know if I have IBS? Your doctor may diagnose IBS based on your symptoms. No specific test for IBS exists, but your doctor may do some tests to rule out other health problems that can cause the same symptoms. If the patient is younger or symptoms are accompanied by blood in the stool, an endoscopy or colonoscopy may be ordered to help rule out Crohn’s disease or colitis, which are much more severe gastrointestinal conditions. Likewise, patients over the age of 50 who exhibit symptoms will likely be tested to rule out colon cancer. The condition often develops after an intestinal infection. It can occur in anyone, regardless of age or gender, but females in early adulthood are the most commonly diagnosed. The condition can also cause depression in people who have experienced symptoms for a prolonged amount of time. What can I do about IBS? Complications of inflammatory bowel disease, are typically mild and are rare. Discomfort is the most common side effect of the disease. Monitoring the condition and treating symptoms promptly is the best way to help avoid complications.The prognosis for IBS, is certainly a good one. The condition can be life-long, but symptoms are typically very mild and infrequent. Alleviating stress and maintaining a proper diet can often keep symptoms from arising. Treatment is simple and can include improving sleep habits, exercising regularly, and dealing with life issues that create stress. Dietary changes can help alleviate constipation and diarrhea, and medications for these conditions can also prove to be beneficial. |
