Irritable Bowel Syndrome, also known as spastic colitis, is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that primarily affects the large intestine. It is a functional condition, meaning it is not caused by organic damage or inflammation but by a dysfunction in the motility of the intestine and the interaction between the intestine and the brain.
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
The symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person, but the most common include:
• Abdominal pain and cramping, usually relieved after bowel movements.
• Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two.
• Bloating and a feeling of fullness.
• Nausea.
• Flatulence (belching or passing gas).
Many IBS patients also report lower back pain, which is often associated with abdominal pain.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact causes of IBS are not fully understood, but potential contributing factors include:
• Disruptions in the interaction between the brain and the gut.
• Stress and psychological factors.
• Previous gastrointestinal infections.
• Imbalance in the gut microbiota.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Sleep Disorders:
Many IBS patients report sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or frequent sleep interruptions. These disruptions can worsen the symptoms of IBS, creating a vicious cycle.
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis of IBS is based on the Rome IV criteria.
According to the Rome IV criteria, the diagnosis of IBS is based on the presence of the following symptoms:
1. Recurrent abdominal pain occurring at least once a week for the last three months, and associated with at least two of the following:
Relief of pain after bowel movements.
Onset of pain associated with changes in the frequency of bowel movements.
Onset of pain associated with changes in the form (consistency) of bowel movements.
2. The symptoms should have started at least six months before the diagnosis.
Subtypes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome according to Rome IV Criteria:
Based on bowel habits, IBS can be classified into four subtypes:
• IBS with predominant diarrhea (IBS-D): When diarrhea predominates in bowel movements.
• IBS with predominant constipation (IBS-C): When constipation predominates in bowel movements.
• Mixed IBS (IBS-M): When there is alternation between diarrhea and constipation.
• Unclassified IBS (IBS-U): When symptoms do not fit into any of the above categories.
Treatment and Management:
The management of IBS is individualized and may include:
• Dietary changes, such as a low FODMAP diet.
• Medications to regulate diarrhea, constipation, or pain.
• Stress management and therapy.
Conclusion:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a complex but manageable condition. Proper diagnosis, individualized treatment, and continuous monitoring by a gastroenterologist can help patients live better with the condition and reduce its symptoms.
