The manifestations of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can differ greatly between individuals. Roughly one in five people will endure the discomforting symptoms of IBS at some point. Women are more likely to be affected by IBS than men, and it's uncommon for IBS to first present in people over the age of forty.
IBS symptoms encompass a range of disorders like diarrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, cramping, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms are not exclusive to IBS, making diagnosis challenging.
Diarrhea
Among the most prevalent IBS symptoms is diarrhea, although it's intriguing that nearly half of all IBS cases don't include this symptom. When a diarrhea episode is forthcoming, the urge to evacuate the bowels can be incessant. This can cause significant distress and embarrassment, leading to avoidance of social situations. A study of 200 adults revealed that those with diarrhea-predominant IBS had an average of 12 bowel movements per week, double the average of those without IBS.
Constipation
Over half of IBS patients predominantly experience constipation. Constipation, defined as less than three bowel movements per week, is a common symptom of IBS. It's caused by changes in bowel movement speed that affect the stool's transit. When this process slows down, more water is absorbed from the stool, hardening it and making it difficult to pass. Those with constipation-predominant IBS often report feeling as if their bowel movements are incomplete, leading to unnecessary strain.
Mixed or Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation
Around 20% of patients have mixed or alternating diarrhea and constipation. This form of IBS, characterized by chronic recurring abdominal pain, is considered more severe than other types. Symptoms are often more intense and frequent. As the symptoms vary greatly, treatment needs to be tailored to the individual's specific needs.
Pain and Cramping
Pain and cramping are common symptoms of IBS. It's thought that IBS distorts the communication between the gut and the brain, leading to uncoordinated and painful tension in the digestive tract muscles. The pain can spread across the abdomen but is often localized in the lower left area and tends to decrease after a bowel movement.
Gas and Bloating
IBS can cause increased gas production in the gut due to altered digestion. This results in the uncomfortable sensation of bloating. Many patients consider gas and bloating to be the most persistent and annoying IBS symptoms.
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Fatigue and Insomnia
Studies have shown that many people with IBS exhibit symptoms similar to insomnia, such as difficulty falling asleep and waking up feeling unrested. Over half of respondents reported low energy levels and fatigue that negatively impact their quality of life.
Anxiety and Depression
A comprehensive study of 94,000 individuals found that men and women with IBS were 50% more likely to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and over 70% more likely to have a mood disorder, such as depression. The relationship between IBS, anxiety, and depression is complex: does mental stress cause IBS symptoms, or does the stress of living with IBS make individuals more susceptible to psychological issues?
