Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Stomach disorder)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a stomach disorder that affects large intestines. You may experience cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation. You can control IBS symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle, and stress. Those with severe symptoms can treat them with medication.

IBS discomfort

IBS Symptoms

• Abdominal pain

• Cramping

• Bloating

• Changes in the appearance of bowel movement

• Changes in bowel movements

Other symptoms may include; increased gas or mucus in the stool.
Seek medical attention if you have a persistent change in bowel habits. They may indicate a severe condition, such as colon cancer. More-serious signs and symptoms include:

• Weight loss

• Diarrhea at night

• Rectal bleeding

• Iron deficiency anemia

• Unexplained vomiting

• Difficulty swallowing

• Continuous pain that doesn't reduce by passing out gas or a bowel movement

Causes of IBS

The cause of IBS isn't known. The following factors may contribute to IBS signs and symptoms:

Muscle contractions in the intestine. The intestines walls are lined with layers of muscle that contract as they move food through your digestive tract. Brawny intestinal contractions can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea, while weak intestinal contractions can slow food passage and lead to hard, dry stools.

Nervous system. Abnormalities in the nerves in your digestive system may cause you to experience too much discomfort when your abdomen stretches from gas or stool. Poorly coordinated signals between the brain and the intestines can cause your body to overreact to changes that usually occur in the digestive process, resulting in pain, diarrhea, or constipation.

Severe infection. IBS can develop after severe diarrhea caused by bacterial overgrowth in the intestines.

Early life stress. Stressful events in childhood may cause you to have more symptoms of IBS.

Changes in gut microbes. Examples include changes in bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which often reside in the intestines and play a key role in health. Studies show that the microbes in people with IBS have an imbalance in gut bacteria compared to healthy people.

Complications

• Chronic constipation or diarrhea can cause hemorrhoids.

• Poor quality of life. Many people with moderate to severe IBS report lower quality of life since IBS affects how the brain and gut work.

• Mood disorders. IBS signs and symptoms can cause discomforts like depression or anxiety.

Dietary changes when you have IBS

Increase fiber in your diet. Try to eat more fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts.
Drink plenty of water. Drink at least 8-ounce glasses per day.
Avoid caffeine usage. Examples include; coffee, teas, and sodas.
Limit intake of dairy products. People with IBS don't feel good after eating dairy products (lactose intolerance). You can get calcium from other sources, such as broccoli, spinach, salmon, or supplements.
Try having a low FODMAP diet (an eating plan that can help improve symptoms).

Activity changes to engage in when you have an Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Regular exercise.

• Do not smoke.

• Try relaxation techniques.

• Eat smaller meals more often.

• Take recordings of the foods you eat. It will help you figure out which foods trigger IBS reoccurrences. Common foods that activate IBS are red peppers, green onions, red wine, wheat, and cow's milk.

Summary

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a stomach disorder that affects large intestines. You may experience cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation. Seek medical attention if you have a persistent change in bowel habits. They may indicate a severe condition, such as colon cancer. Try out the above-listed dietary changes and activities to reduce IBS complications.