Irritable bowel syndrome, abbreviated as IBS, is a chronic condition of the large intestine that affects about 20% of the population. Compared to men, women are at twice the risk of this condition or disorder, which can affect one's lifestyle.
While in this condition, some of the most common symptoms are abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, gastritis, etc. This condition causes a lot of hormonal balance, another reason all the symptoms reflect.
IBS does not permanently harm the digestive system. Still, it could substantially influence a person's day-to-day life.
Fortunately, medical science has made a difference. Several treatment options exist to help manage IBS syndrome symptoms and balance them, enhancing quality of life.
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
No one knows the actual cause of IBS. However, various symptoms, conditions and patient responses have been linked to it through which an approx cause or pattern can be drawn out.
The amount of stress someone is handling can also lead to IBS. Gut-brain axis illustrates the connection between the brain and gut. A good example is feeling fear, anxiety, or scared without a need to defecate. Although the example is not directly linked to this IBS, it is established that how you feel, how you think, your stress level, your anxiety level, and your depression level, all are somehow related to bowel movements and the gut.
Besides these factors, even your eating habits can trigger symptoms of IBS. A gluten allergy, lactose intolerance, or eating too much spicy food can cause IBS if hormone levels are unbalanced.
A variety of theories have been linked to IBS and its causes, but none are certain to cause IBS. So symptoms may vary from person to person.
Diagnosing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
If you think you have any of these symptoms that we discussed earlier, you must see your doctor and get a proper diagnosis. The doctor will examine your medical history, ask you a few questions, and then rule out the need for a medical procedure or prescription.
Some of the significant tests they will be running are stool tests, blood tests, colonoscopies, X-Ray and CT scans, among many others.
Since there is no accurate cause or reason for IBS syndrome, these tests will help narrow it down even further.
Treatment Options for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
There are various treatment options available to manage the symptoms of IBS. Doctors treat it differently since there is no specific course.
But in this case, more than the medical procedures to manage the symptoms, there are things that you could do on your own to manage the symptoms. This could help lead a better life. Some of the factors are:
Lifestyle changes
It is evident from the symptoms earlier and from the reasons or causes for IBS that any trigger could exist. Any food habit could be responsible. It could also be stress. Or it could be a lack of regular exercise, so doing the opposite will help you balance your IBS symptoms. So, such changes may include the following:
Change in Diet: if you are lactose intolerant, spice intolerant or if you have any other kind of food intolerance, it is recommended that you avoid such foods. Try to include a lot of fibre-based intakes. Your digestion will be smoothed, and IBS symptoms will also be balanced.
Stress reduction: Practice meditation and yoga, which have proven to be one of the best stress busters. These two activities can change your life if practised in the long run.
Active living: Staying active will prevent you from getting many diseases, including IBS.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, IBS is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people all over the world. Even though no one knows what causes IBS, there are effective treatments that can help with the symptoms and improve quality of life.
Most people with IBS can control their symptoms and improve their overall health by working with a doctor to make a personalized treatment plan. This includes changes to their lifestyle, medications, and other therapies. If you have IBS, don't be afraid to see a doctor for a correct diagnosis and treatment.
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