Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder in the work of the large intestine, which is characterized by a short-term or prolonged manifestation of symptoms in the form of abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation. This disorder is caused by dysfunctions of food digestion and intestinal motility.
The symptoms of this disease are not regular, undulating and have no tendency to progress. The presence of a stressful situation is sufficient for the occurrence of a relapse of IBS. Women under the age of 40 are most susceptible to this disorder. If IBS is detected at an older age, it is necessary to conduct a full examination for possible organic pathologies, such as cancer and colon polyposis.
CAUSES OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
At the moment, modern medicine does not know the true causes of the pathology of irritable bowel syndrome. There are known risk factors that can affect the functioning of the large intestine and contribute to its irritation. First of all, these are psychological factors, such as nervous shocks and stressful situations. In addition, IBS can provoke infectious lesions and intestinal injuries.
SYMPTOMS OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
The main symptoms of IBS are pain and stool disorders. The pain is noted in the lower abdomen, is aching, although it may, in some cases, manifest itself in the form of contractions. Abdominal pain increases after meals, before and during menstruation. Patients may have:
Chilly fingers.
Weakness.
Headache.
Pain in the right hypochondrium.
Vomiting.
Belching.
Nausea.
DIAGNOSIS OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
Physical examination.
Laboratory tests: analysis of blood, urine, feces, etc.
Instrumental examinations: endoscopy, radiography, intestinal CT, ultrasound of the abdominal cavity.
A consultation with a psychotherapist and a gynecologist is mandatory if the patient is a woman.
TREATMENT OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
Since the mechanism of the appearance of this disorder is not fully known, the appointment of effective treatment is quite difficult. There is currently no single protocol for IBS therapy.
Experts note a rather high effect of placebo, since this pathology has a significant dependence on the presence of stressful situations, therefore, the psychological attitude is of significant importance. Successful treatment requires the involvement of a specialist psychotherapist.
Therapeutic methods for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome include correction of the patient’s emotional state, an active lifestyle and dietary nutrition.
The diet has some differences, depending on the characteristics of the course of the disease (constipation or diarrhea). In any case, it is necessary to abandon products that cause irritation of the large intestine, active secretion of bile and gastric juice.
With diarrhea, it is necessary to abandon products that contain a large amount of fiber, and use astringents. In case of constipation, on the contrary, the content of fruits and vegetables in the diet should be increased, with the exception of products that make it difficult to carry out food juice.
For patients with IBS, the main recommendations prescribe the need for an active lifestyle, physical education and walking. It is necessary to adhere to the correct daily routine and try to avoid stressful situations.
To restore the normal intestinal flora, drugs with intestinal bacteria are prescribed.
