What Causes IBS and Are You at Risk?
6/1/2023
Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS, is a digestive disorder that can impact your daily life in several ways. IBS causes irritation in your large intestine, stomach, and additional areas of the digestive system, generally leading to painful and distressing symptoms.
At Gastroenterology Associates, we understand that IBS causes extremely uncomfortable symptoms that can impact your daily life and overall well-being. Our GI specialists regularly care for patients with irritable bowel syndrome in Baton Rouge, LA. It is important to understand what's behind this condition and how it can be managed to improve your quality of life.
What causes IBS?
The actual cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown at this time. Many medical professionals believe it’s the result of a disruption between the brain, which controls gut function, and the gastrointestinal system, causing many GI providers to term this condition “the brain-gut disorder.” This disconnect could lead to issues throughout your gastrointestinal tract, causing the muscles to move food through the system at a pace that is either too fast or too slow. Irritable bowel syndrome is also known as “spastic colon” due to the spasms in the colon that commonly go with the condition.
A variety of things could trigger IBS, such as:
- A diet high in spicy or fatty foods
- Changes in the microbial makeup of your intestines
- Hormone fluctuations
- Caffeinated beverages
- Alcohol use
- Life stresses
- Intestinal infections, such as bacterial or viral gastroenteritis
Understanding IBS triggers and your chances of getting irritable bowel syndrome can help you better manage your IBS symptoms.
What are irritable bowel syndrome risk factors?
IBS is a complex GI condition. As such, multiple factors can cause the onset or recurrence of irritable bowel syndrome. Factors that could increase one’s risk of this condition include:
- Age of the individual: People in almost every age group can develop this condition; however, it most commonly develops during the teenage years or early adulthood. It is not as frequent in those who 50 years old or older.
- Mental health: Depression and anxiety can increase the chances of developing the condition.
- Family history: Some people could be genetically susceptible to experiencing IBS.
- Being female: Irritable bowel syndrome is nearly twice as common among women than men.
- Lifestyle: An unhealthy diet, not exercising, use of tobacco or alcohol, and obesity may amplify your chances of having IBS.
If you think you are at risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome or have other GI concerns, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at a Gastroenterology Associates location near you.
What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel symptoms typically vary from individual to individual. IBS symptoms in women even differ from IBS symptoms in men and often fluctuate in severity. The majority of individuals who have IBS experience moderate effects. Common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are:
- Gassiness
- Mucus in the stool
- Constipation
- Abdominal discomfort
- Abdominal cramping
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
If you find yourself with one or more of these signs or notice a difference in your bowel habits, it may be time to consult with a gastroenterologist. Our providers in Baton Rouge, LA can assess your concerns and/or symptoms to see if irritable bowel syndrome is the cause of your symptoms.
How is irritable bowel syndrome treated?
Even though preventing irritable bowel syndrome isn't always possible, action can be taken to minimize its effects. Treatment for IBS often involves the long-term management of related symptoms to control the condition. Addressing symptoms and managing this condition might require changing your lifestyle, such as implementing a high-fiber diet, making sure you drink your daily intake of water, exercising, and understanding your IBS triggers. Some medicines are also known to help alleviate the symptoms, such as antidepressants, anti-diarrheal, anti-nausea, and anticholinergic medications. Laxatives or fiber supplements could be prescribed to take care of associated issues that are known to cause flare-ups of the condition.
Personalized care for IBS in Baton Rouge, LA
In addition to causing distressing symptoms, irritable bowel syndrome makes many people feel mentally defeated and helpless. It is, however, possible to find relief from this chronic condition. The team at Gastroenterology Associates provides the proper care for irritable bowel syndrome and can help guide you or your loved one to better health. To find out more about your risks, what you can do to care for irritable bowel syndrome at home, and to locate a GI specialist who can provide treatment for irritable bowel syndrome in Baton Rouge, LA, reach out to our team to request a consultation.