Irritable bowel syndrome: doctors talk about early symptoms

It is a well-known fact that most of the immunity and immunoglobulins that protect people from viruses, bacteria, and toxins are located on the intestinal mucosa. Throughout life, it is extremely important to maintain its health and proper functioning, because intestinal disorders can not only worsen overall health but also lead to a decrease in the body's defenses against numerous diseases.

One of the functional disorders is irritable bowel syndrome. OBOZREVATEL has analyzed the available information and described its symptoms and what can affect its occurrence.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disorder of the human digestive system. This condition is characterized not only by pathological changes in the gastrointestinal tract, but also by disruption of the interaction between the gut and the brain. The disease is not easy to diagnose, as it can be caused by a variety of factors and cause different symptoms in different people. The Mayo Cliniс experts talked about the possible symptoms of IBS.

First symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

Abdominal pain and cramps: most often, the pain occurs in the lower abdomen and stops after a bowel movement.

Excessive gas production: additional gases that form in the abdomen can lead to bloating and pain.

Stool disorders: diarrhea, constipation, or both are the most common symptoms of IBS. There may also be complaints of incomplete bowel movements or frequent and sudden urges to defecate

Changes in the nature of the stool: the stool may be too liquid or contain a lot of clear mucus.

What are the types of irritable bowel syndrome?

Depending on the symptoms, doctors distinguish three types of IBS:

IBS with diarrhea - most of the stool is liquid and watery;

IBS with constipation - most of the stool is hard;

IBS with mixed stools - you have both liquid and solid stools during one day.

What causes irritable bowel syndrome?

There is no single cause that leads to intestinal dysfunction, but the main factors that increase the risk include:

Intestinal muscle contractions: the intestinal walls are lined with muscles that help pass food. Thus, strong contractions lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea, while too weak contractions slow down the movement of food and cause constipation;

Severe infection: IBS can occur after gastroenteritis caused by a virus or bacteria, as well as due to excessive bacterial growth in the intestines.

Family history: If you have people in your family who suffer from gastrointestinal disorders, you are at a higher risk of getting it;

Stress: people with an unstable emotional state or excessive anxiety are more likely to complain of intestinal irritation. It is paradoxical that IBS symptoms cause people to experience additional anxiety, while stress can aggravate intestinal disorders;

food intolerance: most often, intestinal disorders are caused by certain carbohydrates, lactose and gluten, so it is worth observing the body's reaction to certain foods, such as legumes, wheat, nuts, vegetables and fruits, sweets, etc.

How to diagnose irritable bowel syndrome?

To make the correct diagnosis, you need to see a doctor and undergo a full examination, which may include:

blood test to monitor anemia, inflammation and infection (complete blood count, C-reactive protein)

Fecal examination for pathological flora;

checking the condition of the thyroid gland;

computed tomography to assess tumors, obstructions and diseases of the pancreas;

ultrasound examination of the gallbladder;

colonoscopy.

How to treat irritable bowel syndrome?

Relief of the identified symptoms will be aimed at eliminating the underlying cause of the disease.

The main recommendations for the treatment of IBS include

Dietary changes: saturate your diet with fiber and additional fiber, but reduce the consumption of milk, cheese, and caffeine. Remember to drink enough water throughout the day. To monitor your condition, keep a food diary and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.

Physical activity: Regular exercise can help relieve symptoms.

Avoiding stress: Try relaxation techniques and find a way to help you calm down and maintain a stable emotional state and avoid unnecessary anxiety.

Medications: If necessary, your doctor may prescribe laxatives to relieve constipation or diarrhea, probiotics to improve the intestinal microflora, or antidepressants to normalize the nervous system.

As you can see, irritable bowel syndrome is an insidious and unpleasant disease that can affect anyone and for which there is no clear treatment. Since there is no single cause, it is impossible to predict and avoid. However, the good news is that if you notice symptoms of an intestinal disorder, you can control it and improve your condition by following simple medical advice and eliminating irritants from your life.