Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is characterised by a variety of symptoms. Such symptoms include abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements. IBS affects up to a third of people. The majority of patients are women, but men can also be affected. Patients usually seek help between the ages of 20-40 years.
The intestine squeezes the contents of our bowels along the insides to the anus during digestion. Peristalsis is usually painless, and it’s not something we notice unless the intestine is more sensitive or there is an abnormality within the bowel. Patients with IBS also seem to be more sensitive to how their intestines move, causing them to feel pain. The changes that occur can be painful. Consider help with Acupuncture Tewkesbury at a site like www.purelandsacu.co.uk/acupuncture-tewkesbury
There are many possible factors which can cause symptoms. Stress can exacerbate symptoms for some people. Some people may have symptoms due to eating abnormally, or eating a diet that is irregular. Certain drugs can trigger IBS symptoms, such as diarrhoea, especially when they are taken for chronic illnesses. There is a general interaction between gut microbes, the gut immune system, and nervous system.
IBS is the number one reason for a doctor’s visit. One in eight people experience symptoms of IBS. Most people who have IBS can live with it successfully once they are diagnosed and receive help.
IBS is characterised by:
A painful abdomen and irregular bowel movements
Distension, wind and bloating (an increase in the circumference of the abdominal cavity)
Mucus in the poop
A third of IBS sufferers experience constipation. Another third of IBS sufferers don’t have a consistent pattern.
Other symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, backache, and symptoms of the bladder.
