Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Definition:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort, along with changes in bowel habits. It is a chronic condition that does not cause structural damage to the digestive tract but can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
Symptoms of IBS:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Altered bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both)
- Bloating and gas
- Changes in stool consistency
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
Treatment Options for IBS:
- Dietary Modifications & Lifestyle Changes:
- Stress management techniques
- Regular exercise
- Have regular meals and take time to eat.
- Avoid missing meals or taking long gaps between meals.
- Drink 8 cups of fluids per day, including non-caffeinated drinks such as herbal teas
- Restrict tea & coffee to 3 cups per day.
- Reduce intake of alcohol and fizzy drinks.
- Limit intake of high-fiber foods like wholemeal or high-fiber flour and breads
- Reduce intake of processed foods as they contain resistant starch
- Limit fresh fruits to 3 portions per day
- Increase intake of oatmeal and linseeds (1 tablespoon per day)
- First-line Medications:
- Antispasmodic medications for pain
- Anti-diarrheal medications (e.g., loperamide)
- Laxatives for constipation (avoid lactulose laxatives)
- Second-line Medication:
- Prescription medications such as Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) or, less commonly, serotonin receptor modulators if first-line treatment does not suffice.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) / Hypnotherapy or Psychological Therapy:
- These Address the psychological aspects of IBS, particularly in cases of refractory IBS when pharmacological treatment does not work even after 12 months.
It’s essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of IBS to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.