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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a condition characterized by abdominal cramping, bloating, gas, and other changes in the bowels.
What is going on in the body?
Normally when a person eats, the stimulation of the food causes the muscles of the colon to contract. This contraction then pushes the stool toward the rectum to the outside of the body. IBS seems to cause the colon to be more sensitive to stimulation.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
It is not clear what causes IBS. Emotional stress and diet, especially one high in calories and fat, seem to be some of the factors that increase the symptoms associated with IBS. Other factors include:
Symptoms & Signs
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome may include:
Diagnosis & Tests
How is the condition diagnosed?
To diagnose IBS, a healthcare provider often starts by ruling out other possible causes for the symptoms. After a complete history and physical, the healthcare provider may order:
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Since the cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not clear, it may be difficult to prevent. The following steps may help:
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Irritable bowel syndrome does not appear to damage the stomach or intestines. The long-term effects are often associated with stress and frustration over the symptoms.
What are the risks to others?
Irritable bowel syndrome is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome often focuses on treating the symptoms and preventing flare-ups. This may include:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Antidepressants may cause diarrhea, sleep disorders, headaches, irritability, and decreased libido.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can and often do reoccur. A person with IBS needs to continue dietary management for the rest of his or her life. Antidepressants may not be needed after stress management or behavioral therapy helps a person gain control over emotions.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Attribution
Author:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:11/29/00
Reviewer:Melissa Sanders, PharmD
Date Reviewed:07/05/01
Sources
www.niddk.nih.gov/health/digest/pubs/irrbowel/irrbowel.htm