Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common stomach disorder that causes abdominal discomfort and trouble with bowel movement. IBS affects millions of people in the country between the ages of 25 and 45. Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by pain in the abdomen accompanied by diarrhea or constipation.

Though it is not a life-threatening condition, IBS can become a lifelong issue that alters your lifestyle significantly. Treating irritable bowel syndrome should be focused on addressing the symptoms through supplements and medication.

1. Symptoms

Common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Cramps in the lower part of the abdomen that worsens after a meal
• Flatulence
• Bloated feeling
• Altered stools – harder or loose stools
• Bloated abdomen

Stress is known to worsen the symptoms of IBS. The different types of IBS are classified based on the symptoms: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), alternating diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M), and those that do not fit into any of these categories are classified as IBS-U.

2. Diagnosis
There is no definite diagnosis method for IBS. A complete medical examination and evaluation of medical and family history is performed first. Other diagnostic tests include: Manning criteria, Rome criteria, and Classification of IBS. The doctor also assesses other conditions such as rectal bleeding, anemia, persistent diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and weight loss, in order to diagnose other serious conditions related to IBS. Imaging tests may be performed to determine if there is any damage to the digestive cavity.

3. Treatments

Treating irritable bowel syndrome is mainly focused on alleviating the signs and symptoms. Lifestyle changes are suggested by the doctor so that the person may be able to live a normal life. Mild to moderate symptoms can be controlled with changes in food and lifestyle.

Some of the lifestyle changes for treating irritable bowel syndrome are:

• Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms
• Including high-fiber foods in the diet
• Staying hydrated by drinking lots of fluids
• Leading an active lifestyle by exercising regularly
• Managing stress at work and home
• Sleeping for at least 8 hours a day

Foods to be avoided are foods that cause gas, such as carbonated foods, caffeine, raw fruit and vegetables, alcohol, and cabbage. In some people, IBS worsens with gluten intake. Avoiding gluten foods helps alleviate the symptoms associated with IBS.

Medications for treating IBS are:

• Laxatives for those suffering from constipation due to irritable bowel syndrome. Magnesium hydroxide and polyethylene glycols are common laxatives prescribed for IBS.
• Anti-diarrheal medication, such as loperamide, helps in fighting diarrhea induced by IBS.
• Anticholinergic medications such as dicyclomine help in relieving abdominal spasms.
• Medications specific for treating irritable bowel syndrome are Alosetron for relaxing the colon; Eluxadoline for easing diarrhea; Rifaximin for decreasing bacterial overgrowth; Linaclotide for increasing fluid secretion in the small intestine for the easy passage of stool.

Researchers are investigating new methods for treating irritable bowel syndrome that might prove to be more effective in addressing the symptoms.