Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms And Measures

Having good gut health is the number 1 priority of every self-respecting person. However, there are many factors that can put the microbiota in imbalance, thus causing disorders of the proper functioning of the intestine and consequently disrupting our daily life. One of these very common conditions is called irritable bowel syndrome which affects around 6-18% of the world's population. Fortunately, this disorder is not serious for health but nevertheless represents a significant inconvenience. Deavita.fr tells you everything you need to know including symptoms, causes, remedies, tips and tricks, etc.

What exactly is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a chronic digestive disorder that results in abdominal pain, stomach bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. Also known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional colopathy or functional bowel disorders, this chronic condition affects the large intestine and affects women more than men. And although IBS greatly affects daily life, it is not classified as a bowel disease due to the lack of lesions and abnormalities in those affected. Rather, it is seen as a functional disorder that does not increase the risk of colon cancer.

In general, there are three subcategories of IBS depending on the symptoms:

• Pain and diarrhea.
• Pain and constipation.
• Pain, diarrhea and constipation.

These discomforts are related to the change in the speed of food passage through the colon. Movements that are too fast or, on the other hand, too slow will lead to different symptoms. For example, if the phases of contraction and relaxation of the muscles of the colon are faster or stronger than usual, the intestine is not able to absorb the water contained in the food, this that causes diarrhea.

What causes irritable bowel syndrome?

Although there are many ways to treat irritable bowel syndrome, the exact cause of its occurrence is not yet known. However, some doctors blame the weak immune system or the sensitive colon. Factors such as diet, stress, poor sleep, and changes in gut bacteria can also trigger symptoms. And just like these, the physical processes involved in IBS can also vary and most often consist of the following disorders:

• Slow or spastic movements of the colon causing painful cramps.
• Abnormal levels of serotonin in the colon affecting motility and stool.
• Mild celiac disease that damages the intestines and causes irritable bowel syndrome.

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

As already clarified, irritable bowel syndrome is manifested by changes in the frequency and / or shape of the stool as well as lower abdominal pain. As for the triggers, these are individual for each person, making it difficult to specifically name all of the factors causing this bowel disorder. And with that in mind, our editorial staff invites you to read on to discover the most common symptoms in the following paragraphs.

Pain and cramps

Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of an irritated bowel and is a key part of diagnosis. Usually, the gut and the brain “work” together to control digestion. This process takes place via hormones, nerves and signals released by the good bacteria that inhabit the intestine. But with irritated bowel syndrome, these signals become distorted, which leads to painful tension in the muscles of the digestive tract. This discomfort is mainly located in the lower abdomen or includes the entire abdomen. The pain decreases after defecation.

Diarrhea

The predominant diarrhea affects about a third of patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Some patients describe this unpleasant situation as a major source of stress that pushes them to avoid social contact.

Constipation

There are many causes of constipation, but the most common is irritable bowel syndrome. The predominant constipation affects nearly 50% of people with IBS and is characterized by abdominal pain that subsides after defecation as well as a feeling of incomplete stool.

Alternating diarrhea and constipation

The alternation of the two most common symptoms of functional colopathy affects about 20% of those affected and results in chronic and recurring abdominal pain. Take into account that pain is indeed the most important clue that changes in stool are not related to diet or mild infections. This category is the most severe and is characterized by the most frequent and intense symptoms. Therefore, this condition requires individual treatment prescribed by a specialist.

Gas and bloating

Impaired digestion in people suffering from this troublesome condition results in increased production of gas in the intestine, which causes bloated tummy. Indeed, in a study examining 337 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, 83% of them reported cramps and bloating. The latter are identified as one of the most persistent symptoms of functional colopathy. In this case, specialists advise to avoid lactose.

Food intolerance

About 70% of people with IBS report that particular foods trigger symptoms. The reasons for these food intolerances are still poorly understood but it is important to emphasize that they are not allergies. While each person's trigger foods are different, certain foods such as lactose and gluten are the main culprits in causing symptoms.

Tiredness and difficulty sleeping

160 adults diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome describe poor endurance that affects their daily lives including work and social interactions. Another study examining 112 adults affected by this digestive disorder, focuses on the quality of sleep. However, these symptoms are considered more serious.

Anxiety and depression

Irritable bowel syndrome is also associated with anxiety and depression. Currently, it is not known whether mental stress causes symptoms of functional colopathy or whether the stress of suffering from this digestive disorder causes psychological problems. Regardless of the cause, it's no secret that anxiety and digestive symptoms reinforce each other.

What foods to avoid when suffering from irritable bowel syndrome?

Eating healthy and balanced when you suffer from an irritated intestine is an essential gesture that should never be neglected. Changes in the amount of food or the complete elimination of certain foods such as dairy and fried products, indigestible sugars, and beans can help reduce the various symptoms of IBS. Here is a small list of other foods to ban from your menu:

• Insoluble fibers
• Gluten
• Legumes
• Caffeinated and carbonated drinks
• Processed foods
• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Garlic and onions
• Broccoli and cauliflower

The hygiene-dietetic measures to remember

Cramping, bloating, gas and diarrhea, irritable bowel symptoms are very bothersome and even embarrassing. However, there are several lifestyle changes and home remedies you can try to alleviate the condition. In the following six paragraphs, discover the right actions to adopt in order to enjoy a normal and carefree life.

Play sports

Regardless of the type, athletic training is perhaps the most popular way to fight anxiety, stress, and depression. Techniques that can alleviate these three conditions can also help soothe intestinal discomfort. If you are not an advanced athlete, start with light exercise and / or a 20 minute jog. For information, experts recommend exercising for 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Adopt relaxation techniques

Incorporating relaxation techniques into daily life is very beneficial for your health, especially if you suffer from gastrointestinal disorders. Here are the three most popular methods:

• Diaphragmatic / abdominal breathing
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Mental visualization / imagery

Increase fiber intake

While fiber helps relieve some symptoms like constipation, it can make others like cramps and gas worse. However, foods high in fiber such as fruits and vegetables are recommended as a treatment for IBS but provided that they are eaten gradually over several weeks.

Watch out for dairy products …

Many people who are lactose intolerant suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. In this case, specialists advise to swap milk for yogurt or to consider the use of enzymatic products. In some cases, the doctor may recommend banning dairy products completely. It is therefore essential to get enough protein and calcium from plant sources. In case of questions and doubts, do not hesitate to contact a dietitian or nutritionist.

… And laxatives

Over-the-counter laxatives can either improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome or make them worse. It mostly depends on how you use them. Read the prospectuses carefully and follow the instructions carefully. Consultation with a doctor or pharmacist is preferred.