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Simply put, Irritable bowel syndrome is a lack of coordination
between the colon, pelvis and sphincter.
Look at it like this. After a meal, the stomach becomes extended
and releases various gastrointestinal hormones. Following this,
the nerves in the colon become activated and stimulate the
muscles in the wall of the colon. This is known as a gastro
colic reflex.
This is part of normal digestion, but people with irritable
bowel syndrome may experience cramps or diarrhea and an urgent
need to go to the toilet even before a meal is finished.
Symptoms of IBS can also occur on other occasions, not just
during a meal.
As digestion takes place, food moves slowly back and forth with
regular colon contractions heading towards the rectum. These
contractions happen several times a day and will sometimes
result in a bowel movement. Problems may occur if the action of
the colon, pelvis and sphincter lack coordination and may result
in constipation or diarrhea.
Approximately two thirds of sufferers of irritable bowel
syndrome are women. Research has not been able to determine why
women suffer more, although one school of thought is that
reproductive hormones released during menstruation may have some
effect.
The biggest problem associated with it, is that it can happen at
any time and without warning. This can interfere with ones
normal lifestyle as often outings or events are arranged
according to proximity to a toilet.
Symptoms often first appear in the teen years and usually take
the form of a change in the frequency or consistency of bowel
movements including diarrhea or constipation, or both, or cramps
and abdominal pain. Other symptoms include vomiting, nausea and
acid reflux.
Fortunately, IBS does not cause permanent damage to the colon or
precipitate other more serious conditions.
Causes of irritable bowel syndrome have not been clearly
documented, although sufferers often exhibit emotional and
nervous problems including depression, stress, and personality
disorders.
Irritable bowel syndrome can not be cured, although a number of
treatments are used including prescription drugs to lessen colon
spasms. Anti depressants are also used.
Self treatment in respect of diet is recommended, with different
options recommended, depending on whether constipation or
diarrhea predominate.
Plenty of water and simple foods including vegetables are
recommended, whereas processed or spicy foods should be avoided.
Symptoms of IBS also appear to be alleviated with regular
exercise.
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Author Tony Wilton writes regularly on acid reflux disease and
other gastric problems. His comments are recommended reading at
his site http://www.acidrefluxheartburn.com |
