Irritable Bowel Syndrome is also known by its initials,
as simply IBS,
as spastic colon, and mucous colitis.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common condition in
which recurrent abdominal pain in combination with constipation and/or
diarrhoea can persist for years - without other more general deterioration
in the person's physical health.
The cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome unknown but
the condition is often associated with stress or anxiety, and may follow
severe infection of the intestine (for more information about the
intestines see small
intestine and large
intestine).
Symptoms & Effects of Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
There is no detectable structural disease but symptoms may be due
to
- Abnormal muscular contractions in the intestine.
- Increased sensitivity to stimuli such as stretching or distension.
Medical Tests and Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
may include:
Medical tests may be performed to investigate the possibility of specific
organic diseases and other possible causes of the symptoms.
Treatment may involve:
-
Addressing any anxiety (e.g. psychotherapy)
-
Dietary adjustments
-
Faecal softening agents
-
Drugs to reduce spasm and/or reduce sensitivity to pain.
