Aasta Watson, C.L.A., A.S.C.P.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome- Aasta Watson, C.L.A., A.S.C.P.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a bowel disorder in which a person suffers from abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements. It is also known as a spastic colon and is often referred to as IBS.

People who suffer from IBS can have a wide variety of symptoms that can range from constipation and bloating to diarrhea and severe cramping. Some of the main symptoms to look for are: bowel movements less than three times a week, more than three bowel movements in one day, hard stools, loose and watery stools, bowel movements that require straining, having an incomplete bowel movement, passing mucus in the stool, bloating or swelling, and having to rush to the restroom to have a bowel movement.

It is still unknown as to what exactly causes IBS and some may even argue that genetics play a role. One of things that may cause IBS is an over growth of bacteria in the stomach. Bacteria are a normal inhabitant of the stomach. They help aid in digestion and play an important role in the body. Although they are beneficial an overgrowth of the intestinal bacteria, especially the wrong kind, can cause problems. Have you ever heard of the term, “Too much of a good thing.” One study showed that 78-84% of people who suffered from irritable bowel syndrome had bacterial overgrowth of bacteria in their intestines. Another possible cause of IBS is stress. There are many nerves in the colon that are called the enteric nervous system. These nerves respond to activity, such as stress, in the brain. When these nerves are stimulated they cause contractions, cramps, and pain in the abdomen. This is normal in every person, but those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome respond to the slightest stress. In women menstruation  can trigger or increase symptoms of IBS. Pregnancy and menopause can also cause IBS sufferers to worsen or improve. There is also a theory that IBS is caused from a response to food allergy. Some people have even reported symptoms of IBS after anti-biotic therapy or gastroenteritis, which is inflammation of the small intestine.

One of the ways that a person suffering from irritable bowel syndrome can control or somewhat control the symptoms are by changing their diet. It is important to have a diet that is high in fiber. Try to avoid large amount of soy and rice products and be careful with fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber that is in-soluble. In-soluble fiber is the portion of fiber that can not be digested and absorbs water. It is also important to eat smaller meals several times a day.

IBS sufferers also have the option of taking prescription medications. If a person suffers from mainly constipation then they would be put on medications that soften the stool. If a person suffers mainly from diarrhea then they would be put on a diuretic. Laxatives that are osmotic agents are a good choice for patients that do not respond to a high fiber diet. Osmotic agents shift water between places in the body. In other words, the agents help the stomach or colon absorb more water to soften the stools. There is also the option of antispasmodics, anticholinergenics, which basically impair a chemical in the nervous system. This helps by reducing cramps. Serotonin is also an option. It stimulates motility in the gut for those who suffer from mainly constipation.

There are also some more natural alternatives such as probiotics. Most health stores, such as GNC, carry supplements that contain live bacteria.  This live bacterium is “good” bacteria that can help with stomach cramps and frequency. There are many people that have benefited from probiotics, and it is an inexpensive and safe alternative to prescription medication. Some people treat their IBS with acupuncture. Acupuncture is an old Chinese in which needles are inserted into the skin to relieve pain.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not a life threatening disease and does not lead to other intestinal problems, but it does hinder quality of life. IBS sufferers can be in immense pain along with other intestinal symptoms. These symptoms may cause an individual to develop social problems due to their fear of an onset. A person suffering from IBS should consult their physician for treatment options. 

Our I-70 Family Clinic is open Mondays thru Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. You can make an appointment by calling (660) 335-7074, but walk-ins are always welcome. 

All of this information and more can be found on our Medical Center Website at www.i70medcenter.com and New! this Month listen to our I-70 Medical Moment on KMZU Radio, 100.7 on the FM dial where James Noble will be discussing health topics that affect you and your family and where you can turn to for the help that you need.