Frequent urge to pass stool with incomplete evacuation sensation.
Irritable bowel syndrome
Introduction
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. It causes abdominal pain, swelling, gas, and changed bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or both. IBS does not cause structural damage, but greatly affects daily life. Stress, diet and intestinal sensitivity are common triggers that require proper management.
Type of irritable bowel syndrome
IBS with constipation (IBS-C)
The characteristic of immoral bowel movements, rigid or lustful stool, swelling and abdominal discomfort, often deteriorates after food or stress.
IBS with IBS (IBS-D)
Constant loose or water stools, urgency, stomach cramps, and discomfort are usually caused by certain foods or emotional stress.
Mixed IBS (IBS-M)
Alternative episodes of constipation and diarrhea, with different stool stability, stomach inflammation and regularly experienced discomfort.
Unclaimed IBS (IBS-U)
Symptoms include symptoms that do not fit continuously in other IBS types with unexpected bowel habits, swelling and recurring abdominal pain.
Causes of irritable bowel syndrome
- Unusual muscle contractions in the intestine cause irregular bowel movements and abdominal problems.
- Increased sensitivity of the digestive system increases abdominal pain and inflammation sensation.
- Stress and anxiety worsens in many individuals to trigger, trigger or increase the symptoms.
- Intestinal infections or inflammation can irritate normal bowel habits and cause frequent IBS symptoms.
- The intestine leads to digestive and converted bowel patterns in individuals affected by imbalance of microbiota.
- I intolerance to food, such as dairy, gluten or fatty foods, often trigger IBS-related discomfort and irregularity.
- Hormonal changes, especially in women, affect digestion and usually spoil the IBS symptoms during the menstrual cycle.
- Genetic tendency increases sensitivity, as IBS often moves in families with history of digestive disorders.
Clinical features OF IBS:
Abdominal Pain
Intermittent or persistent pain caused by abnormal intestinal contractions.
Altered Bowel Habits
Constipation, diarrhea, or alternating episodes depending on IBS type.
Bloating
Abdominal swelling and discomfort due to excess gas formation.
Mucus in Stool
Presence of white or clear mucus in the stool.
Urgency
Symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome
- Abdominal pain or cramps often occur, usually relieved after crossing the stool.
- Frequent swelling and feeling of perfection are usually experienced.
- The habits of the bowler including diarrhea, constipation, or alternate between the two.
- The mucus in the stool can be seen in some individuals with IBS.
- A continuous feeling of imperfect bowel empty after defecation.
- Increased gas or flatulence causes discomfort and discomfort.
- Nausea can sometimes happen, especially after eating some foods.
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances are common due to frequent digestive discomfort.
Investigations in irritable bowel syndrome
- A detailed medical history is taken to understand the frequency, duration and trigger of the symptoms. The doctor evaluates the pattern of abdominal pain, swelling and replaced bowel habits. Assessment of individual and family medical history is also related to other gastrointestinal disorders that can mimic the symptoms.
A thorough physical examination is performed to examine the tenderness of the stomach, swelling or abnormal sounds in the intestines. Doctors also seek warning signs such as weight loss, stool blood, or severe pain, which may indicate more serious conditions than irritable bowel syndrome.
Blood tests are performed to detect signs of inflammation, infection, anemia, or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. Tests such as complete blood calculations (CBC) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) help control the conditions such as Clyc disease, inflammatory bowel disease or chronic infection.
Stool analysis helps to identify infections, parasites or blood in stool. It can also detect inflammatory markers such as calprotectin or lactoferrin, which are usually absent in IBS. Stool tests are particularly important for separating IBS from conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or infection.
A colonoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera in the colon to imagine the intestinal lining. It helps in detecting abnormalities such as polyps, ulcers, swelling or tumors. This test is usually recommended when patients have dangerous symptoms or are more than 50 years old.
The flexible sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and lower part of the colon using a flexible tube with a camera. It helps identify inflammation, ulcers or other structural abnormalities. This test is particularly useful when there are symptoms such as rectal bleeding or chronic diarrhea, helping to separate the IBS from other conditions.
Lactose intolerance can mimic IBS symptoms, so hydrogen breathing tests are done. After consuming lactose, hydrogen levels in the breath are measured. The elevated levels indicate lactose malabsorption. Identifying lactose intolerance helps to modify the diet and control it as the primary cause of digestive discomfort.
Imaging techniques such as abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can be used to exclude bile stones, tumors, or other structural abnormalities. These scans provide a detailed view of the abdominal organs and help different symptoms to separate IBS from other gastrointestinal diseases.
Food allergies or sensitivity can spoil symptoms such as IBS. Tests such as skin prick testing or elimination diet are sometimes used to identify problematic foods. Identifying and avoiding food triggers such as gluten or dairy can help manage symptoms effectively and improve overall digestive health.
Rome IV criteria is widely used to diagnose IBS. These criteria focus on the presence of recurrent abdominal pain at least once a week in the last three months, which is associated with changes in stool frequency or form. This standardized evaluation helps ensure an accurate diagnosis.