Medically reviewed by Jezreel Esguerra, MD · General Practitioner
Someone with Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS experiences long-term abdominal pain and altered bowel habits without an observable and measurable cause.
Medical experts are still not sure why people develop IBS. Mostly, the focus lies on altered gastrointestinal motility and hypersensitivity. Other experts also believe that altered gut flora, bacterial overgrowth, and inflammation, contribute to the development of the condition.
The signs and symptoms of IBS may vary, but the most common include the following:
Please note that people with signs and symptoms of IBS have no “schedule” in experiencing them. Sometimes, the symptoms are mild; sometimes, they are severe. There are even times when they don’t experience them at all. Most reports say that the signs of IBS are triggered by something they ate or drank.
Although the signs and symptoms of IBS are not life-threatening, you must still seek medical attention if you experience the following:
These signs may mean that you have another condition that should be medically addressed.
If symptoms are left unmanaged, a person who has IBS may experience the following complications:
Once you have identified the signs of IBS, you may consult your doctor for further diagnosis. However, there is no definitive diagnostic test for IBS. Your attending physician will most likely take a look into your medical history. They will also take note of the signs and symptoms you have been experiencing.
If you experience abdominal pain, your doctor will likely ask the following questions:
Should your answer be a yes to at least two questions, the doctor will additionally ask you:
Of course, to rule out other conditions, the doctor may also request additional blood tests and stool tests for you.
Treating and managing the signs of Irritable Bowel Syndrome may be a long process, but you can do it.
The first step is to manage your diet. The doctor will advise you to eat regularly. You must eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, and small snacks in between. You must not miss meals or eat very late in the evening. Additionally, take your time when eating and chew your food well.
The doctor will also ask you to be mindful of your food intake. What kinds of food trigger your IBS symptoms? Avoid them if you are able to.
In general, you must:
Depending on your condition, the doctor may also prescribe medications that include anti-diarrheal drugs or laxatives. At times, the physician will also give you anti-spasmodic drugs. Anti-spasmodic drugs are medications that regulate muscle contraction. As a result, they reduce the level of abdominal pain.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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