Article by:
Amelia Grant
Dealing with gastrointestinal discomfort is a common part of life, with symptoms like bloating, gas, pain, and irregular bowel movements affecting nearly everyone at some point. However, for some, these symptoms might indicate a more serious issue known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is a diagnosis encompassing a variety of symptoms, and its root cause remains elusive.
Affecting 10 to 15 percent of the global population, IBS is characterized by symptoms persisting for over six months. Read on to explore the common signs and risk factors associated with IBS to help you recognize and understand this digestive issue.
Signs of Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
1. Chronic fatigue
Fatigue, although non-specific, is a prevalent symptom in individuals with IBS. The exact cause remains uncertain, but some IBS patients exhibit signs of body-wide inflammation, leading to muscle and joint aches, disruptions in neurotransmitters, brain fog, and sleep disturbances.
2. Gastric distress with FODMAPs
IBS sufferers may experience distress after consuming specific foods high in FODMAPs, such as avocados, lentils, bread, milk, garlic, and high fructose corn syrup-sweetened sodas. FODMAPs are carbohydrates that, when fermented by gut bacteria, produce gas, irritating sensitive gastrointestinal tracts.
3. Abdominal pain or discomfort
Persistent lower abdominal pain accompanied by bowel changes, like diarrhea or constipation, is a hallmark sign of IBS. Growing evidence points to gut dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut bacteria, as a fundamental cause. Treatment involving probiotics, prebiotics, and targeted antibiotics or herbal antimicrobials shows promise.
Risk Factors for Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
4. Unexplained belly pain in childhood
Many IBS sufferers experienced functional abdominal pain in childhood, characterized by pain without detectable abnormalities upon examination. Childhood experiences with this pain may contribute to heightened sensitivity to internal stimuli in the large intestine.
5. Family history of IBS:
If family members like your mother, sister, or aunt have IBS, you may be at a higher risk. While no clear genetic pattern has been identified, family history can influence susceptibility, raising the likelihood of developing IBS.
6. Females under the age of 50
Women under 50 are more prone to IBS than men, with women experiencing constipation and bloating more frequently, while men lean towards diarrhea. The prevalence of IBS decreases after age 50, possibly linked to hormonal shifts during menopause or changes in gut bacteria associated with aging.
7. Fibromyalgia
Individuals with fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and various cognitive issues, may be more susceptible to IBS. Fibromyalgia is believed to heighten painful sensations by impacting the brain's processing of pain signals.
8. Childhood antibiotic use
Antibiotic use in childhood can influence the development of IBS later in life. The gut microbiome, comprising trillions of bacteria, plays a crucial role in immune system function. Antibiotics in childhood may disrupt this balance, potentially contributing to IBS development.
Understanding these signs and risk factors is crucial for early recognition and management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. If you suspect IBS based on these indicators, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.
9. Psychological factors
Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact the onset and severity of IBS symptoms. The gut-brain connection plays a crucial role, with emotional states influencing gastrointestinal function. Stress management and psychological support are essential aspects of IBS management.
10. Dietary habits
Dietary choices, including a high intake of processed foods, artificial sweeteners, and insufficient fiber, can contribute to IBS symptoms. Maintaining a balanced and fiber-rich diet while minimizing trigger foods can aid in symptom management.
11. Infections and gastrointestinal issues
Previous infections or gastrointestinal problems may increase the risk of developing IBS. Inflammation and changes in gut motility resulting from these issues might contribute to the development of long-term symptoms. Seeking medical attention for prompt treatment of infections is crucial to potentially mitigate IBS risk.