Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), what is it?
Do you regularly experience stomach bloating, cramping, diarrhea, constipation or gas? If so, you are not alone. You may be suffering from a condition called Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS. This is a very common condition that effects more than 30 to 55 million people in the United States and results in 2.5 -3.5 million office visits every year. Studies suggest that at any one time, 10-15% of the population have IBS. However, only a small percentage of these people will seek professional help. IBS is more common in women (14-24%) than men (5-19%).
IBS is normally characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence and changes in bowel habits, and no specific disorder to point to as the cause. IBS is called a functional disorder, which means that there is no sign of disease when the colon is examined, but the bowel isn’t working, as it should. IBS is not a new problem and has been around for hundreds of years. In the late 1800’s, it was referred to as mucous colitis and still has many names, including spastic colon, nervous colon, and irritable colon. It is often a chronic problem ranging from symptoms several times a day to several times a week to several times a month.
About 50 -60% of people with IBS report that their symptoms arise after eating a meal, giving rise to the theory that food sensitivity may be the culprit. Therefore, foods in the diet may be the main source of all of the symptoms of IBS, including pain, bloating, abdominal discomfort, flatulence and alterations in bowel habit.
Some of the most common foods that are likely to cause IBS symptoms are dairy products, wheat, eggs, soy, yeast, salicylates, corn, and alcohol. Other potential food triggers include fatty foods, caffeinated drinks, sugar, beans, onions, and raw fruits and vegetables.
IBS, though problematic to the individual with its decrease in quality of life, does not lead to a life-threatening disease or a shortened life span. It is important to be able to distinguish between IBS and problems with true organic origins. Some alarming symptoms that should be examined by a physician are increasing pain at night, pain that disturbs sleep, red blood in the stool or black stools, fever and/or weight loss. These symptoms describe conditions that are more serious and should be looked at by your doctor.
IBS symptoms are very common. However, there are options available that can significantly reduce the symptoms of IBS so there is no need to suffer with this condition.
We can help! Advanced Allergy Centers, gets excellent results with symptoms associated with IBS. Please contact our office for more information on how we can help you. (603) 894-0656. www.advancedallergytreatment.com