ProViva Tummy School
Section 6: Irritable bowel syndrome
Many people have to live with sensitive intestines. The condition is known as irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS. The disease is one of our most common illnesses and researchers believe that over ten percent of adults suffer from IBS. IBS is what is known as a "functional" gastrointestinal disorder, which means that the motor function of the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted. Those affected have either slowed motor function, which may lead to constipation, or accelerated motor function, which may result in diarrhea or may alternate between the two. Tests of patients with IBS show that the entire GI tract (from the esophagus to the rectum) is overly sensitive. Even intestinal secretions and digestion can be disrupted, causing many persons with IBS to experience problems after meals.
The disease cannot be diagnosed by means of tests or examinations; it is the patient's subjective history that leads to the diagnosis, which can therefore be difficult to make. From a medical standpoint the disease is benign, but it can be difficult to live with.
What is the cause?
The cause of this disease is unknown. Presumably many factors are involved and the theories are numerous. Among other things researchers believe that the disease is hereditary and involves disruptions of the intestinal nerves or muscles. It may also be caused by some form of hypersensitivity to various food substances.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms vary from person to person. Some may have many of the following symptoms, while others are troubled by only one:
- Change in stool habits
- Abdominal gas and "bloating"
- Abdominal pain that is often worse after meals but alleviated by bowel movements
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Mucous in stool
What can you do about the situation?