What are the Symptoms of IBS Syndrome?
September 27, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms related to the digestive tract. The symptoms of IBS can vary in intensity and duration from person to person. Common symptoms of IBS include:
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort:
- Recurrent or chronic discomfort or pain in the abdomen, often associated with changes in bowel movements.
- Altered Bowel Habits:
- Changes in bowel movements, including diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both (alternating diarrhea and constipation).
- Bloating and Gas:
- Feeling of bloating or fullness in the abdomen, often accompanied by increased gas production.
- Cramping:
- Cramping sensations in the lower abdomen, which may be severe or mild.
- Mucus in Stools:
- Passing mucus in stools, which may be more noticeable during bowel movements.
- Urgency to Have a Bowel Movement:
- A strong and sudden need to have a bowel movement.
- Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation:
- The sensation that a bowel movement is not fully completed after using the toilet.
- Fatigue and Difficulty Sleeping:
- Feeling tired or fatigued, often due to disrupted sleep patterns.
- Anxiety and Depression:
- Emotional symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or heightened stress levels may accompany IBS.
- Food Triggers:
- Symptoms may worsen after consuming certain foods or drinks, including alcohol, caffeine, fatty foods, or certain types of carbohydrates.
- Backache:
- Some individuals with IBS may experience lower back pain.
- Increased Frequency of Bowel Movements:
- More frequent bowel movements compared to your normal pattern.
- Pain Relief After Bowel Movements:
- Relief from abdominal pain or discomfort after a bowel movement.
It’s important to emphasize that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary greatly among individuals with IBS. Additionally, IBS does not cause structural damage to the intestines and is diagnosed based on symptoms and exclusion of other gastrointestinal conditions.
If you experience persistent or severe symptoms consistent with IBS, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and management. Lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, stress management, and, in some cases, medication may be recommended to alleviate IBS symptoms.