|
Magazine
Not a serious problem
Dr. UMA KRISHNASWAMY
|
An intelligent approach is needed in the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Dr. UMA KRISHNASWAMY advises.
|
AP
Dietary adjustments can help.
IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS) is a common problem affecting people mainly between the ages of 20 to 40 years. It belongs to a spectrum of problems called functional disorders of the gastro intestinal tract.
This is because despite detailed investigations, no specific physical or chemical cause has been found. It is thought to arise from a sensitivity of the muscles of the bowel to a variety of stimuli which do not affect most other people. Thus, it is safe to describe IBS as a problem of disordered bowel motility.
Many patients trace the onset of IBS to episodes of gastro intestinal infections, gastro intestinal surgery or severe stress. The symptoms are a combination of: abdominal discomfort or pain together with an alteration in stool frequency or consistency.
These symptoms may be episodic or continuous: mild, moderate or debilitating. They are often brought on by certain foods or stress, though of course, IBS is not caused by stress. Many patients may have associated symptoms unrelated to the gastro intestinal tract. Diagnosis is one of exclusion. After a thorough examination, a doctor may order the following tests: a motion examination, colonoscopy etc., mainly to rule out other causes.
The scope of the investigations will vary from person to person, depending on the constellation of symptoms that the doctor is investigating. Once a diagnosis is made, management begins with patient education about the nature of the problem. It is essential for a patient to understand that IBS is not a harbinger of future disease and that it does not lead to serious complications.
Some of the common treatment options include:
Dietary adjustments to avoid food triggers. In this context, it must be said that identifying the culprits triggering the symptoms is far easier than persuading some patients to avoiding their consumption.
Enhancing the fibre contents of one's diet is a useful option along with commercial fibre supplements. Side-effects such as bloating or flatulence can be avoided by taking only that amount necessary to produce one or two soft and bulky motions.
Drugs that are useful include: pain killers, medication to control flatulence, muscle relaxants. Anxiolytics, sedatives may also be prescribed if emotional distress is prominent.
Mint, ginger, chamomile are used by many as useful adjuncts to conventional drugs.
Meditation, bio-feedback, relaxation therapy etc. are other options that may have a place in the managements of IBS.
Many patients find that a combination of the above options are very useful and that at different periods of time, some options may work better than others. Above all, an intelligent and calm approach to the management of IBS is the key ingredient to success.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Magazine
|
