(IBS)
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- What is IBS?
- Symptoms of IBS
- Causes of IBS
- Prevention of IBS
- Risk factors for IBS
- Complications of IBS
- When to see a doctor about IBS
- Diagnosis of IBS
- Conventional treatment of IBS
- Alternative/complementary treatment of IBS
- Living with IBS
- Caring for someone with IBS
Risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Currently it is not known what exactly causes IBS, but scientist think that the following factors may play a part in triggering this condition:
- Disordered motility - some people have a bowel that is either smaller or larger than normal that does not contract properly to allow food to move through normally and causes some problems with the muscle contractions
- Foods - some people find allergies or sensitivities to certain foods trigger symptoms
- Gastroenteritis - sometimes IBS can develop after a bout of viral or bacterial gastroenteritis (or gastritis)
- Lactose intolerance - can trigger IBS symptoms in some people
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- Redundant colon - the loops of the large bowel may hang lower in some people with IBS, which may affect the bowels' ability to contract properly and move the food through properly and this could be a factor in causing the symptoms of discomfort as well as other symptoms
- Stress - symptoms can be greatly exacerbated by stress in many people
- Visceral hypersensitivity - some people are just more aware of their digestive system and have a more conscious experience and awareness of pain
There is much disagreement and division in the medical community about the exact cause of IBS, as some of the theories of the cause of IBS above have yet to be proven (especially the redundant colon theory).
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< 4: prevention 6: complications > Last reviewed: 28 September 2008 || Last updated: 2 February 2009
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NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
