Irritable bowel disease, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), is a relatively common disorder that is rarely talked about. Because the symptoms that occur are often such embarrassing subjects to discuss, many people never seek help or treatment. Since irritable bowel syndrome revolves around such undesirable subjects, many people may not even know of its existence, thus not realize that the problem they are facing doesn’t have to be managed alone or in secret.
Primary Symptoms
At this point, very little is understood about the exact cause of IBS. However, researchers suspect that the problem lies with the tissue lining the large intestine and with the connection between the nerves gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the brain. The GI tract contracts and releases to move food along it. When someone has IBS, these involuntary movements do one of two things. They may be much stronger and faster, or they may be slower and weaker. In the first case, diarrhea is often the result; in the second, constipation as the stool becomes hard. Generally, each person experiences one of these more than the other, although most people usually alternate between the two.
When the connection between GI tract and neuron receptors in the brain is garbled, a pain that is normal for most people becomes much more intense. Whether from gas or food, as the tissue stretches to allow matter to pass, the nervous system strongly overreacts. The bodily stress of the overreaction may also cause the diarrhea and constipation. Diagnosis usually requires it be present for at least three days a month for three months. Stool may also have a mucousy appearance.
Additional Symptoms
Some patients notice very specific symptoms that may seem to have nothing to do with the gastrointestinal tract. Some people find they often have a strange taste in their mouths. Others have headaches or backaches. There may be fatigue present or, conversely, insomnia that is not due to pain or other symptoms. Other issues may include heart palpitations, sexual problems, or a change in urination. The constant feeling of being unable to live a full or active life combined with the nearly constant pain and GI disruptions can be so overwhelming as to result in depression or anxiety as well.
Mimicking Symptoms
Although irritable bowel disease is not a medical emergency, there are many inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that manifest similarly but that can be much more serious, and even increase the risk of colorectal cancer (which is life-threatening). If you notice any blood in your stool, weight loss, or abdominal pain that is present or worse in the night, make an appointment with your physician immediately.
