In recent years, Mr. Zhang has often experienced abdominal discomfort.
He feels the urge to use the restroom immediately after meals.
He also feels the need to go when he gets anxious.
All the medical examinations have been conducted.
Yet, no underlying cause could be determined.
This left Mr. Zhang feeling very distressed.
Recently, with a friends recommendation,
he visited the Gastroenterology Department at Hainan Cancer Hospital
and finally uncovered the "culprit" behind his suffering:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Dr. Zhao Xinkai, Director of the Gastroenterology Department at Hainan Cancer Hospital, states that Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder, characterized by clinical symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, changes in defecation habits, abnormal stool consistency, and mucus in the stool.
The exact cause of IBS remains unclear. However, research indicates it may be associated with factors such as abnormalities in the enteric nervous system, post-infectious sequelae, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and psychological influences.
Which populations are more susceptible to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
The prevalence of IBS in the general population in China is approximately 1.4%–1.5%, with a slightly higher incidence in women than in men. While IBS can occur across all age groups, it is more common in middle-aged adults aged 18–59 years.
For some IBS patients, although they experience gastrointestinal symptoms, they can maintain their daily activities and work, leading them to often neglect the condition. Only about 25% of IBS patients seek medical care.
Dr. Zhao emphasizes that while IBS does not threaten life, its symptoms can significantly disrupt work, study, daily activities, and mental health, significantly reducing their overall quality of life. Therefore, recognizing and managing IBS is crucial for improving patients’ well-being.
Be alert for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) if you experience the following symptoms:
1、A history of symptoms lasting over six months, with persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort for the past three months, and at least two of the following characteristics:
Symptoms related to defecation;
Accompanied by changes in defecation frequency;
Accompanied by changes in stool consistency or appearance.
2、The following symptoms are not essential for diagnosis but are common; the more of these symptoms present, the stronger the support for an IBS diagnosis:
Irregular defecation frequency (e.g., more than three times a day or fewer than three times weekly).
Abnormal stool consistency (e.g., lumpy/hard stools or watery diarrhea).
Abnormalities in the bowel movement process. (e.g., straining, urgency, or incomplete defecation sensation).
Mucus in the stool.
Gastrointestinal bloating or a sensation of abdominal distension.
3、Morphological changes and biochemical abnormalities without an identifiable cause
Prevention and Treatment
Disease prevention and control focus primarily on prevention. Dr. Zhao highlights that IBS prevention and treatment rely on a comprehensive approach, including lifestyle adjustments, dietary improvements, and possibly pharmacological treatment.
Here are some methods that may help prevent and manage IBS
1、Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Regular routines, adequate sleep, and moderate exercise can support overall health and reduce symptom occurrence.
2、Stress Management
Employ techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or relaxation exercises to alleviate psychological stress that may impact gut health.
3、Dietary Adjustments
Avoid foods irritating the gut, such as spicy dishes, coffee, and chocolate. Maintain a balanced diet and gradually introduce fiber-rich foods.
Medication Treatment
For diarrhea-predominant IBS, treatment typically includes antidiarrheal agents and antispasmodics, supplemented with probiotics, non-absorbable antibiotics, or antidepressants if necessary. For constipation-predominant IBS, osmotic laxatives or prosecretory agents generally are the main treatments.
Experts advise that while IBS can be bothersome with proper management, patients can learn to live with it peacefully. Understanding your guts conditions and adopting appropriate measures are critical to improving your quality of life. If you suspect you may have IBS, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for professional diagnosis and treatment tailored to your condition.
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