Have you all heard of the disorder IBS? Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder that usually affects the large intestine. Sometimes IBS can be chronic and can cause dangerous issues.

In this article, we are going to see all that you need to know about irritable bowel syndrome including the causes, treatment, symptoms as well as prevention.

Is IBS serious?

Before knowing the symptoms of IBS let us discuss what exactly is an IBS. IBS is usually associated with the large intestine which can cause heavy cramping abdominal pain as well as diarrhoea and constipation.

Not all people suffering from IBS have severe signs and symptoms. Only a few people suffer from serious IBS symptoms. 

What are the warning signs of IBS?

The most common symptoms of IBS include

• Cramping
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation

It is uncommon for people to suffer from both constipation and diarrhoea while having IBS. Also, these symptoms can vary differently in men and women. 

IBS in women

Women who are suffering from IBS have symptoms at the time of their menstruation. Sometimes they suffer heavy symptoms during this period. 

Women who have undergone menopause have fewer symptoms compared to women who are still menstruating. 

In certain cases, IBS symptoms have also been reported among pregnant women.

IBS in men

IBS symptoms are also present across men too. But as compared to women only a few men seek treatment for IBS. 

What is the main cause of IBS?

Even though there are many discoveries, the exact cause of IBS is still unknown. But studies have shown that there are a variety of factors that can cause IBS. Some of them are:

• Slowed movement of the colon causes painful cramping.
• Abnormal serotonin level that causes bowel movements.
• Mild celiac disease that can damage the intestine and thus cause IBS

Can stress make IBS worse?

The answer is yes. Stress can increase and sometimes words and the symptoms associated with IBS. To a large extent, our digestive system is controlled by the nervous system. Stress can heavily damage the nervous system and can result in improper functioning of the nervous system. 

Moreover, if a person is suffering from typhoid even slight destruction of the nervous system can heavily trigger your colon. 

What are the worst food for IBS?

Some foods can worsen the effects of IBS. If you are suffering from IBS, consider avoiding these food items from your diet plan. Some of the food items that can make IBS effects include:

• Processed foods such as chips and cookies
• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Carbonated foods
• Breads made of refined grains
• Cheese and other diary products

Can IBS be cured?

Sadly there is no cure for IBS but the treatment methods can provide relief to your symptoms. Your doctor may suggest some lifestyle changes to reduce the effects of IBS in your body. You have to reduce eating: 

• High gas foods: high gas foods such as carbonated or alcoholic beverages and sometimes certain food items can lead to increased gas. Avoiding high gas foods is very important if you are suffering from IBS. 
• Gluten: items such as wheat and barley are rich in gluten. Many studies show that people who stopped eating gluten-rich foods have reported ease in their IBS symptoms.
• FODMAPs: FODMAPs refers to food items such as fructose, fructans and lactose. They are found in food items such as grains vegetables and fruits as well as dairy products. 

If you want to know more about the diet changes you should probably consult a dietician. Based on the seriousness of the problems your health expert may suggest treatments and counselling. Counselling is usually given for patients who are suffering from depression.

For more help and support, contact us on 1800 889 2559. We are always here to help you.