Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), also known as spastic colon, is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine, called the colon. The condition is characterised by a group of gastrointestinal symptoms that normally occur together and vary in severity and duration from person to person. In some cases, irritable bowel syndrome is associated with diverticular disease but doesn’t increase the risk of gastrointestinal cancers or cause changes in the bowel tissue.

The exact cause of IBS is unknown. However, there are several factors that can trigger or play a role in the occurrence of IBS, such as stress, poor diet, bowel infection/inflammation and food allergy or intolerance. Irritable bowel syndrome can cause persistent discomfort and can affect your quality of life. IBS signs and symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, excessive gas/windiness, cramping, constipation and occasional diarrhoea. IBS symptoms aren't always persistent; they can resolve, only to come back later again. However, some people may experience severe persistent life-changing symptoms.

In women, IBS symptoms may occur around the time of menstruation, or they experience more symptoms around this time. Menopausal women experience fewer symptoms than women who are still menstruating. In some cases, certain symptoms increase during pregnancy. In men, IBS symptoms are the same in women, but men hardly report their symptoms and or seek medical attention. Dr John Wright may be able to diagnose IBS based on the symptoms you are experiencing. He may also take a stool sample to rule out an infection, and blood test to check for anaemia and rule out coeliac disease. A colonoscopy may also be performed to examine the intestine and rule out colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer.

Treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) normally involves dietary changes and medications. The main dietary changes are increased fibre to increase stool volume and hard pieces such as nuts to improve motility. Medications that may be recommended include antispasmodic medication to reduce abdominal cramping, bulk-forming agents to relieve constipation but stimulatory laxatives and fruits such as prunes are normally never advised.