Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Overview of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS) is a common bowel disorder in which there is abdominal pain associated with defecation or a change in bowel habits. It does not have any organic causes. Nevertheless, IBS is the most common cause of gastrointestinal referral and impaired quality of life. It usually affects young women 2-3 times more often than men.
Signs and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Recurrent colicky abdominal pain, Altered bowel habit, Abdominal distension, Rectal mucus, Feeling of incomplete defecation
Common Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Problems in digestion, Increased sensitivity of the gut
Risk Factors of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Female, Smoking , Alcohol consumption, Age <60 years, Psychological and physical stress
Investigation Techniques for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Full blood count, Stool culture, Sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy(in elderly patient)
Treatment and Prevention of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Lifestyle and dietary management, Constipation: simple laxatives, linaclotide/lubiprostone, self administered anal irrigation, Diarrhoea: bulking agent(psyllium/polycarbophil), loperamide, Colic/bloating: oral antispasmodic(mebeverine, hyoscine butylbromide), Cognitive behavioral therapy, Gut-directed hypnotherapy, Tricyclics: amitriptyline(low dose for visceral pain)
