What is IBS?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic condition that does not have a direct cause. Among individuals with IBS, a variety of recurring patterns are commonly observed.
Patterns such as:
Irregular muscle contractions in the intestine
Issues with the nervous system
Changes in gut microbes
Severe infection.
Who does it affect?
It is used as an umbrella term due to it's many classifications. Several facors may influence the onset of IBS with certain demographic groups being particularly susceptible, including:
Having family history
Being Young
Being Female
Have anxiety, depression, or mental health issues
Specifically, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be triggered by certain changes. Certain foods can create an influx in symptoms and excessive stress can worsen them.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of IBS vary either as long-term, or temporary in response to lifestyle. The common symptoms are:
Abdominal Pain
Cramping or bloating
Changes in bowel movement
Reminder, symptoms vary from individual to individual. More severe symptoms such as :
Weightloss
Rectal Bleeding
Iron deficiency anemia
Pain that isn't relieved over time
These may indicate a more serious condition or are complications. It is best to seek your healthcare provider for a health plan.
How to manage IBS
There is no specific diet or treatment plan that can fully cure IBS, but certain lifestyle changes can drastically introduce comfort:
Eating small frequent meals to reduce bloating
Drinking plenty of water
Incorporating whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat paste, etc)
Plenty of exercise
Try some probiotics to promote healthy digestion
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will decrease the frequency of these symptoms. By adopting such strategies, individuals with IBS can navigate their condition more effectively, ensuring continuity in their daily lives.
https://weillcornell.org/news/5-winning-ways-to-live-a-normal-life-with-ibs Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board