What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disease that interferes with the normal functions of the large intestine (colon). It is characterized by a group of symptoms - crampy abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. One in five Americans has IBS, making it one of the most common disorders diagnosed by doctors. It occurs more often in women than in men, and it usually begins at the age of 20

IBS causes a lot of discomfort and anxiety, but it does not workpermanently harm the intestines and does not cause bleeding or a serious illness like cancer. Most of the people to control symptoms with diet, stress management can, and medications prescribed by your doctor. But turn off for some people, IBS too. You can no longer work, go to social events, travel or even short distances.

What causes IBS? What causes a person to have IBS and not another? Nobody knows. Symptoms can not be traced to asingle organic cause. Research suggests that people with IBS seem a colon that is more sensitive and reactive than usual, a variety of things including certain foods and have stress. There is evidence indicating that the immune system fights infection, is also involved. IBS symptoms result from the following: The normal motility of the colon do not function properly. It can be spasmodic or even shut down temporarily. Cramps are sudden strong muscle contractions that come and go.

The lining of the colon) (epithelium is affected by the immune and nervous systems, regulates the transfer of fluids into and out of the colon. In IBS, the epithelium appears to work properly. But the rapid movement of the contents of the colon can overcome the absorptive capacity of the colon. The result is too much fluid in the stool. In other patients, colonic movement is too slow, too much liquid is absorbed, and constipation develops.

The colon responds strongly to stimuli (forExample, foods or stress), which does not bother most people. In people with IBS, stress and emotions can strongly on the colon. It has many nerves that connect to the brain in touch. As the heart and lungs, the colon is controlled partly by the autonomic nervous system, which have been shown to respond to stress. For example, if you're afraid, your heart beats faster, blood pressure is up, or you can grab on. The colon also reacts stress. It may contract too much or toosmall. It may absorb too much or too little water.

Research has shown that very mild or hidden occult () Celiac disease in a smaller group of people with symptoms that mimic IBS at present. People with celiac disease can not digest gluten found in wheat, rye, barley is available, and possibly oats. Foods containing gluten are toxic to these people, and their immune system responds by damaging the small intestine. A blood test can determine whether celiac diseasepresent.

The following issues have been associated with a worsening of IBS symptoms:

large meals

Bloating from gas in the colon

Medicines

Wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, dairy products, alcohol or

Drinks with caffeine such as coffee, tea or cola drinks

Stress, conflict or emotional upsets, researchers have also found that women may have more symptoms during their menstrual periods with IBS, suggesting that reproductive hormones can exacerbate IBSProblems

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