Your IBS Handbook | By Dr Vedant Karvir | Best Gastroenterologist in Mumbai

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions worldwide. If you’ve been experiencing persistent stomach issues despite normal test results, you might be dealing with IBS. In this guide, Dr Vedant Karvir explains IBS, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and management strategies.

What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition characterized by abdominal pain and discomfort, often accompanied by changes in bowel habits. Despite its symptoms, IBS is a benign condition, meaning it doesn’t lead to serious disease like cancer. Understanding this can help ease some of the anxiety associated with IBS.

Key Symptoms of IBS

Abdominal Pain: A central symptom of IBS, this pain can occur in various parts of the abdomen and is often linked with bowel movements. It can vary in intensity and location.

Bloating and Urgency: Many IBS sufferers experience bloating and an urgent need to have bowel movements, especially after eating. This urgency can be particularly noticeable in the morning.

Stool Types and IBS Classification: IBS is categorized based on stool patterns:

• IBS-C (Constipation): Characterized by hard, infrequent stools.
• IBS-D (Diarrhea): Involves frequent, loose stools.
• IBS-M (Mixed): Alternates between constipation and diarrhea.

Even if your stool type falls between 3 to 5 on the Bristol Stool Chart, if symptoms persist, it may still be considered IBS.

How IBS Affects Daily Life

- Diet: Managing IBS often involves dietary adjustments. Avoiding processed foods and adopting a diet high in fiber and low in FODMAPs can provide relief. Learn more about the FODMAP diet here.

- Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps regulate bowel movements and reduces IBS symptoms. Incorporating physical activity into your routine is beneficial for managing IBS.

- Psychological Impact: IBS can impact mental health, potentially leading to anxiety and depression. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and mindfulness is crucial for those with IBS.

Causes of IBS

- Diet and Nutrition: Certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms. A low FODMAP diet can significantly reduce symptoms by minimizing gas and discomfort.

- Physical Activity: Regular exercise supports normal bowel function and can alleviate IBS symptoms.

- Stress Levels: Stress is a known trigger for IBS. Effective stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, can help improve symptoms.

Diagnosing IBS

IBS is typically diagnosed using the Rome IV criteria, which include:

• Duration: Symptoms lasting more than 6 months.
• Frequency: Pain occurring at least once a week for the past three months.
• Pain Related to Bowel Movements: Pain associated with changes in stool frequency or form.

Common diagnostic tests include basic blood tests, stool tests, and hydrogen breath tests. For persistent symptoms despite normal results, advanced tests like colon transit studies or MR defecography may be used.

Treatment and Management of IBS

Dietary Adjustments: Adopting a low FODMAP diet, increasing fiber intake, and avoiding trigger foods can help manage IBS symptoms.

Medication Options: Depending on the severity, medications such as antispasmodics, laxatives, or anti-diarrheal drugs may be prescribed.

Stress Management: Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve IBS symptoms.

Regular Physical Activity: Incorporating exercise into your routine can aid in managing IBS symptoms and improving overall well-being.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, while challenging, is manageable with the right approach. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and management strategies can significantly improve your quality of life. Consult with a gastroenterologist near you for a tailored approach to managing IBS symptoms.

FAQs

What are the common symptoms of IBS?
Ans: Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation.

How is IBS diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically uses the Rome IV criteria, assessing symptoms based on duration, frequency, and their relation to bowel movements.

What dietary changes can help with IBS?
Ans: Adopting a low FODMAP diet, increasing fiber intake, and avoiding trigger foods can help.

How does stress affect IBS?
Ans: Stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms by disrupting the brain-gut interaction, leading to increased discomfort.

What are some effective treatments for IBS?
Ans: Effective treatments include dietary adjustments, medication, stress management techniques, and regular physical activity.

For more detailed information on managing IBS and related treatments, check out these helpful YouTube videos by Dr Vedant Karvir.

Causes & Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Part 2- Dr. Vedant Karvir - Gastroenterologist