Irritable Bowel Syndrome
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a cluster of symptoms rather than a disease. Although not life threatening, it is a source of discomfort and embarrassment and the second leading cause of absenteeism in the American workplace. IBS is sometimes referred to as spastic colon, nervous colon, spastic bowel, and spastic colitis. It is not a "disease" in the normal sense of the word (it cannot be transmitted from person to person nor can it be cured by an operation or medication). It should not be confused with Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Colitis. IBS can be managed and its troubling symptoms decreased through the steps outlined in this instruction sheet.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
People with IBS experience constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of alternating diarrhea and constipation. There may be bloating, cramps, gas, and/or urgency to use the bathroom, especially after a meal. Mucous may be seen in bowel movements. Rectal bleeding is never caused by IBS and should be reported to/and followed up by your physician.
What causes IBS?
IBS is an abnormality in the way the intestinal muscles contract. Even though the muscles appear normal under a microscope, they do not function properly, contracting too forcefully or weakly, too slowly or rapidly at times. This causes the symptoms of cramping, diarrhea, or constipation.
What factors aggravate IBS?
What can I do to decrease or lessen the symptoms of IBS?
STRESS-Emotional stress can contribute to IBS. The brain and intestine are closely connected by nerve fibers that control the function of intestinal muscles. Many people notice their symptoms are worse when they are under stress.
Recognize the factors that cause stress in your life (high pressure jobs, family tensions, etc.) Explore how you might reduce these stressors.
Talk to a friend, counselor, or clergy person.
Exercise can reduce stress in many individuals.
Other Methods-Some patients have found meditation, yoga,
relaxation therapy, or biofeedback useful in reducing stress.
You can talk to your doctor about these methods.
FOOD TRIGGERS-Each of us reacts differently to various foods. For some, spicy or greasy foods can cause discomfort. For some, milk and dairy products can aggravate cramping and bloating. You may want to keep a food diary to help you isolate the foods to avoid or at least note what foods you ate before symptoms start.
Caffeine (in coffee, tea, colas, many other sodas, and chocolate) can stimulate intestinal muscles and produce symptoms.
SLOW DOWN! Many people eat too quickly. Take time to relax and enjoy your food at mealtimes. Try smaller portions at more frequent intervals during the day.
AVOID SMOKING-Nicotine can aggravate IBS symptoms.
INCREASE FIBER, gradually -
Fiber adds bulk that keeps other foods moving along in our digestive tract, and holds water which softens the stool for easy elimination. Most Americans consume 10-15 gms of fiber per day while experts recommend 20-35 gms per day. You can increase fiber by:
- Adding fruits and vegetables (at least three servings of each per day; raw and unpeeled when possible).
- Replace white bread with whole grain breads or rolls.
- Use brown rice instead of white
- Use whole grain pasta to replace regular pasta
- Add a tablespoon or two of bran each morning
- Replace your current cereal with one that provides more fiber. (Read the label!)
- Make changes gradually. Allow a few weeks to allow your body to adjust to increasing amounts of fiber. This will reduce gas and bloating.
DRINK ENOUGH WATER
For good health, eight glasses of water is recommended, especially if constipation is one of the symptoms of IBS.
MEDICATION-Your physician may prescribe:
- Bulk Agents-such as psyllium seed to make stools softer and ease movements.
- Antispasmotics-these medications act directly on intestinal muscles to decrease cramping and pain. If the medication prescribed doesn't relieve your symptoms, tell your doctor. There are several and one may work better than another for you.
How can I know if I have IBS or something else?
Your doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical. Tests used to rule out colon diseases include a flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, a hemoccult test to detect traces of blood in the stool or an X-Ray exam called a barium enema. It is important to rule out other disease (cancer, diverticulitis, Ulcerative Colitis, or Crohn's Colitis).
How long does it take to relieve the symptoms?
Relief of IBS symptoms can be a slow process that requires patience. The tendency for the intestine to respond to stress will always be present, but attention to stress sources, food triggers, increased fiber, and in some cases the use of appropriate medications, greatly reduce and control symptoms.
