Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of the stomach and intestine. This chronic condition of the gastrointestinal tract often affects a person lifelong and needs proper care and management. Symptoms of IBS include excessive gas and abdominal pain. IBS is a type of functional gastrointestinal disorder that occurs due to problems with the gut-brain axis. It usually affects people in their late teens or early 40s. Women are more prone to IBS in comparison to men.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
In IBS, the muscles of the colon tend to contract more in comparison to healthy people. More than usual, bowel muscle contractions result in pain and cramping.
Symptoms of IBS are usually present for a long time and vary among individuals. These include:
- Abdominal pain, bloating and cramping in the gastrointestinal tract related to bowel movement
- IBS results in dysmotility and problems in gastrointestinal muscle contraction and movement of food through the GI tract.
- IBS results in changes in the pattern or frequency of bowel movements.
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation
- Too much gas in the gastrointestinal tract
- Mucous in the stool
Most people with IBS have mild symptoms, which can be controlled by a proper diet and exercise. However, people with severe symptoms need medical treatment for the management of the disease. Serious symptoms of the disease include:
- Weight reduction
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained vomiting
- Diarrhoea at night
- Anaemia due to iron deficiency
- Pain that does not go away after a bowel movement or by-passing gas
Conclusion
Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, like abdominal pain, cramping, and altered bowel patterns, can significantly impact lives. This condition, which often persists throughout a person's life, tends to emerge in the late teens and early 40s and can have a familial predisposition, with women being more susceptible. While lifestyle adjustments can manage mild symptoms, severe cases may necessitate medical intervention. It’s essential to consider health insurance options to ensure access to the necessary treatments and healthcare support for managing IBS effectively.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
Also Read