Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common disorder characterized by abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. IBS is uncomfortable to live with and discuss. Statistically, one out of five American lives with irritable bowel syndrome. However, only a small amount of people suffer from the severest signs and symptoms of IBS.

What Are The Symptoms Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome vary from person to person. The most common symptoms are

• Stomach pains
• Cramping
• Feeling bloated
• Flatulence
• Constipation
• Diarrhea (people with IBS will often endure alternating stages of constipation and diarrhea)
• Mucus in the stool

It can sometimes be difficult to treat these symptoms as IBS can be present with other diseases. In rare cases individuals can find the condition disabling. IBS can usually be controlled though stress relief, lifestyle changes and diet management.

What Causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

The cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown. Some health professionals believe that IBS can be a result of the nerves that control muscle contractions in the bowels. Other researches cite hormonal changes during menstrual cycles for women.

Your diet is the most common culprit in irritable bowel syndrome. Certain foods such as chocolate, milk, coffee, candy made with artificial sweeteners, and alcohol can cause those with IBS to become constipated or experience diarrhea.

Some research merits that the simple act of chewing stimulates the colon and that the type of food consumed may not be the actual trigger.

Stress is also a likely cause of irritable bowel syndrome. Many people find that IBS symptoms can become more frequent during stressful periods during their daily routine. It is not believe that’s stress is the cause of IBS but it can magnify symptoms of IBS that one is already experiencing.

Gastroenteritis can sometimes aggravate IBS symptoms as well.

Who Is More Likely To Get Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

You are most likely to have irritable bowel syndrome if you are a female in your 20s. IBS affects women three times more then it affects men. This condition can also run in the family which suggests a possible genetic link.

What Treatments Are Available To Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

IBS is a condition which has been proven to be difficult to treat. Some doctors recommend increasing dietary fiber; some caution against eating too much “roughage”, as it may trigger symptoms. Lifestyle changes and eliminating certain foods alone are not always sufficient for IBS patients who suffer from its more severe symptoms.

Treatments include:

• Metamucil and Citrucel to control constipation.
• Imodium or Lomotil, anti-diarrheals.
• Anticholinergics, such as Donnatal or Levbid, which diminish bowel spasms resulting from an overactive sympathetic nervous system.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) such as Prozac or Zoloft, which relieve depression and decrease the activity of neurons that affect the intestines.
• Pain relievers such as Vicodin or Percodan for severe pain

Drugs designed for treating IBS include:

• Lotronex is designed to relax the colon and slow movement of waste through the lower bowel. However, after being removed from the market by the FDA for being related to at least four deaths and causing severe side effects in 197 people, the drug was removed from the market. Lotronix has since been re-released by the FDA with limited approval to be prescribed only to women who show no signs of improvement with other IBS treatments.

• Zelnorm is another drug which can be used only by women to treat IBS with constipation. Zelnorm mimics serotonin to help nerves and muscles of the intestine to ease uncomfortable bowels.

Lotronex and Zelnorm are both intended for short term use by women only. Only physicians with expertise in irritable bowel syndrome should prescribe these medications due to the possible side effects.

How Long Will These Treatments Take?

It can take months for someone living with irritable bowel syndrome to experience changes through lifestyle. People whose symptoms do not improve through lifestyle changes should seek medical help and follow the regimen prescribed by your physician.

Living With Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome can be an especially painful condition. It is important to learn as much as you can about this disorder to provide yourself the knowledge to live a healthy and comfortable life. You can find information online, at medical centers, and schools. Define which symptoms of IBS are specific to you. Support groups are also available. Consult your doctor or your local newspaper.

What Are The Alternative Treatments?

Some people find nontraditional therapies to be very helpful with helping to quell the pains and embarrassment of irritable bowel syndrome.

• Acupuncture has been proven by the National Institute of Health to relieve the chronic pains of IBS. Acupuncture is effective because it relaxes muscle spasms and improves bowel function.
• Eating foods high in probiotics like yogurt and dietary supplements can ease symptoms.
• Peppermint relaxes the muscles of the intestines. Be cautious of using this treatment. Make sure that your peppermint capsules are enteric-coated as plain capsules can cause heartburn

Will I Have Pain?

Unfortunately, one of the main symptoms of IBS is pain. That is why a treatment plan is important to stop the painful attacks.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

Usually, IBS is not severe enough to cause an absence from work or school, but there are certainly cases where this has been an issue.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

One of our board-certified gastroenterologists will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover IBS Treatment?

Insurance should cover this condition and any approved treatments.