Intestinal irritation or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 10-15% of the population and causes recurrent discomfort that impacts quality of life.
In this article
Key takeaways
- Functional syndrome without organic lesion
- Symptoms: pain, gas, altered rhythm
- FODMAP diet reduces symptoms in many patients
- Stress worsens evolution
- Other causes must be ruled out first
Causes and factors
- Visceral hypersensitivity
- Microbiota alteration
- Stress and anxiety
- Food intolerances
- Previous gastroenteritis episodes
Symptoms
Recurrent abdominal pain, distension, gas, alternating diarrhoea-constipation, incomplete emptying sensation. Symptoms usually worsen with stress.
Diet and lifestyle
Low-FODMAP diet (fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides and polyols) reduces symptoms in 70% of patients. Eating slowly, chewing well and regular exercise are also key.
Medical treatments
- Antispasmodics
- Selected probiotics
- Laxatives or antidiarrhoeals depending on pattern
- Low-dose antidepressants in selected cases
- Psychological support
Signs requiring urgent evaluation
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in stools
- Anaemia
- New symptoms >50 years
- Family history of colon cancer
Recurrent intestinal symptoms?
The digestology team at Clínica Eupnea offers comprehensive diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome.
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