What Causes Irritable Bowel Symptom Problems?

An estimated 15 to 20% of the population within the United States is effected by Irritable Bowel symptom problems.

This means that more people are effected by this than are effected by depression, diabetes and asthma combined. Pretty overwhelming statistic don’t you think?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a troubling condition that is more physical in nature than it is psychological (which seemed to be the initial conclusion when IBS was first studied).

It is characterized by a series of symptoms that usually occur in your lower abdominal region. The intensity of these symptoms can vary, even on a daily basis, being mild, moderate or severe in nature.

Most commonly gastroenterologists diagnose this disorder and it can affect people regardless of their age and ethnicity.

However, women are twice as likely to experience the condition than men. Researchers are still not sure why this is the case though. Usually, when women suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome it is about the time when they are expecting their menstrual cycle. However, Irritable Bowel Syndrome can occur at any time.

The term "irritable bowel" refers to disturbances or changes in regular bowel function. “Syndrome” is used to indicate that there are numerous symptoms instead of 1 exclusive symptom that characterizes this condition.

While everyone has an occasional bowel disturbance, those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome experience more severe symptoms on a regular basis. They have symptoms that can vary in intensity and location but include abdominal pain or discomfort, gas-like cramping, reoccurring or chronic diarrhea and changes in the frequency or consistency of bowel patterns. Nausea, bloating, gas, and constipation alternating with diarrhea are also common symptoms.

It is estimated that between 25 and 50% of the people who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome also experience heartburn regularly, along with an uncomfortable feeling of ‘fullness’. A lot of these people also report having numerous symptoms that are not gastrointestinal in nature.

These symptoms include muscle pain, sexual dysfunction and fatigue and sleep disturbances. Other commonly reported symptoms that are present in severe cases of Irritable Bowel Syndrome include lower backaches and headaches.

As you can see, many of the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome mimic the symptoms of numerous other disorders. This is why it is very important to get a proper diagnosis by a doctor. You will need to tell your doctor if you are experiencing such things as blood in your stool, weight loss, fever, and continual pain. This is important because these are not signs of Irritable Bowel Syndrome but of more serious health problems.

Unfortunately there is no known cure for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, however there are numerous effective ways in which to either control or eliminate Irritable Bowel symptom.

This can be done through diet, stress management, herbal and organic supplements and hypnosis. Of course, drug therapy is also used.

Laxatives, anti-diarrheas, anti-spasmodic drugs and anti-depressants are all used. The good news is that whenever this disorder is properly diagnosed and treated, IBS symptoms can be controlled leaving you to lead a normal, productive life.