Overview of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal condition that affects the large intestine. It causes abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and altered bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation. Though IBS is uncomfortable, it does not cause permanent damage to the colon or increase the risk of more serious conditions. If you are wondering what is IBS, it is a functional bowel disorder where the gut-brain interaction becomes disrupted.

Types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is classified into four main types based on stool consistency:

1. IBS with constipation (IBS-C): Hard or lumpy stools most of the time.

2. IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D): Loose or watery stools most of the time.

3. Mixed IBS (IBS-M): Alternating between constipation and diarrhea.

4. Unsubtyped IBS (IBS-U): Does not fit into the above categories clearly.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS symptoms vary from person to person, such as:

Abdominal cramping or pain

Bloating and gas

Changes in stool consistency (IBS stool may be hard, loose, or watery)

IBS constipation or IBS diarrhea

Feeling of incomplete bowel movement

Mucus in stool

Symptoms of IBS in women may worsen during menstruation, while IBS symptoms in men may be milder but still persistent.

Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The exact causes of IBS are unclear, but several factors may contribute:

Abnormal gut contractions

Increased gut sensitivity

Stress and anxiety

Infections (post-infectious IBS)

Changes in gut microbiota

Food intolerances

Complications in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Although IBS does not cause serious damage, it can lead to:

Poor quality of life

Missed work or school days

Emotional stress, anxiety or depression

Nutritional deficiencies in restrictive diets

Risk Factors of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

You arre more likely to develop irritable bowel syndrome if you:

Are under the age of 50

Are female (IBS symptoms female tend to be more common)

Have a family history of IBS

Suffer from mental health conditions like anxiety or depression

Preventions of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

While there is no sure way to prevent IBS, you can reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms by:

Managing stress effectively

Avoiding trigger foods (like caffeine, fatty foods and dairy)

Eating a fiber-rich diet

Drinking plenty of water

Exercising regularly