What is IBS?
IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a condition where the intestines are more sensitive than normal and often react to meals. It is one of the most common gastrointestinal issues and affects both men and women of all ages. IBS is harmless but long-lasting and can cause significant discomfort in everyday life.
Common causes of IBS
The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but several factors may contribute. For example:
- Hypersensitive intestinal lining: The nerves in the intestines react unusually strongly to gas, food, or movement.
- Intestinal motility: The intestinal muscles work too slowly or too quickly, which can lead to constipation or diarrhea.
- Disrupted gut flora: An imbalance in the gut’s bacterial flora can cause symptoms.
- Stress and psychological strain: Stress can amplify pain signals from the brain and affect the function of the intestines.
- After a stomach infection: In some cases, IBS develops after, for example, gastroenteritis or food poisoning.
Symptoms of IBS
IBS can cause many different gastrointestinal symptoms, often in combination, and they may vary over time. It is common for symptoms to worsen after meals and sometimes improve after bowel movements.
- Abdominal pain and cramps: Usually in the lower abdomen, sometimes relieved after bowel emptying.
- Bloating and gas: A feeling of a swollen stomach, especially after meals.
- Diarrhea or constipation: Often one of the symptoms, but some alternate between both.
- Mucus in the stool: Harmless but common in IBS.
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation: Feeling that the bowel is not fully emptied despite going to the toilet.
When to seek medical care?
IBS itself is harmless, but certain symptoms require medical evaluation as they can indicate more serious conditions. Seek medical care if you experience bloody stools, unexplained weight loss, fever combined with severe abdominal pain, or sudden changes in bowel habits.
How IBS is diagnosed
The evaluation of IBS often takes time because other conditions must first be ruled out, such as inflammatory bowel disease and gluten or lactose intolerance. The doctor evaluates your symptoms, blood tests, and sometimes stool samples. In some cases, an abdominal ultrasound or colonoscopy is performed.
Treatment of IBS
There are no medications or quick fixes for IBS, but symptoms can be greatly relieved with the right lifestyle and treatment. The goal is to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Dietary advice
Diet plays a major role in the treatment of IBS. Examples of adjustments include:
- Low-FODMAP diet: A method to reduce the intake of gas-forming foods.
- Eat regularly: Avoid long breaks between meals and do not eat too much at once.
- Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and spicy food: These can trigger symptoms.
- Probiotics: May help improve gut health for some people.
Lifestyle changes
- Stress management: Try to reduce sources of stress in daily life. Therapy or calming activities such as yoga and mindfulness can relieve symptoms.
- Exercise regularly: Improves bowel motility and reduces stress levels.
Medications
Over-the-counter or prescription medications can be used when needed—for example, for diarrhea, constipation, or cramps. The choice is tailored to your symptoms and needs.