What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Posted By kymom on November 25, 2011

IBS is an acronym for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. IBS is a disorder of the large intestine. Though it is not a life threatening disease, it can certainly cause a major disruption to the lives of the people who suffer from it. The earlier you get help for IBS, the better control you will have over its symptoms and the stress these symptoms can cause for you.

It took many years of research to establish a set of symptoms that would be diagnostic for IBS.  In earlier times, patients would be treated incorrectly for their problems because it was not known that those symptoms were associated with IBS.  On the flip side, it is also true that some patients are diagnosed with IBS when they are suffering from a more treatable cause of diarrhea, the most common being celiac disease.

A person with IBS can have either diarrhea or constipation accompanied by abdominal pain and bloating.  They may notice a change in bowel habits, such as going more often or still feeling the need to have a bowel movement once they are done.

There is no definitive laboratory test or xray for irritable bowel syndrome.   The most recent set of standards published for use by physicians in diagnosing IBS  is called the Rome III Process.  There are other more dated standards as well, or a doctor may choose to use his own judgment based on past patient experiences.

People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome have symptoms that make going out and socializing difficult.  The discomfort from their IBS can be severe.  It may keep them from being able to work also.  Gas and bloating are common symptoms that make being anywhere but home unappealing.

Being aware of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can lead to a diagnosis sooner and then treatment will be more effective.  Being in control of the symptoms of IBS will be key to living your life as you are accustomed.

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