Abdominal problems are common, and affect 8 to 10 million American's each year. The culprit of abdominal discomfort varies. Those who visit their doctor with complaints of stomach problems will likely undergo a series of test to pinpoint the problem. Test generally reveals the cause of abdominal problems as acid reflux, ulcers, or other gastric disorders. These conditions can be cured with proper treatment. Unfortunately, a large group of people experience mysterious abdominal problems that appear to have no underlying cause. After a thorough examination and routine tests, physicians conclude that these people suffer from a condition known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is an intestinal disorder that affects the normal function of the bowels. The bowel produces and stores stool. When the bowels are functioning properly, stool moves through the intestines and exit the body. On average, humans have between one to three bowel movements a day. Those who suffer from IBS may have fewer bowel movements, which cause symptoms such as bloating, cramping, gas, and abdominal pain. Diarrhea and constipation are also common symptoms of IBS. Discomfort may persist for a few hours or a few days.

What Causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

The exact cause of IBS is unknown; however doctors and researchers have been able to identify likely culprits. A common opinion is that IBS results in a miscommunication between the brain and intestines. After meals, or when our bowels are full, the brain sends a signal to our intestines to dispose of our waste. This results in a bowel movement. However, the brain may send incorrect signals to either hurry the disposing of waste, or to slow the process. These incorrect signals are primary causes of diarrhea and constipation. Additionally, many who suffer from IBS are characterized as having a "weak stomach," or weak intestine. Thus, the foods and beverages they consume may cause symptoms of IBS. Foods and beverages commonly associated with IBS include:

• Fatty foods
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, ice cream)
• Caffeinated beverages
• Chocolate
• Alcoholic beverages

Risk Factors

Irritable bowel syndrome may affect anyone regardless of race or sex. This condition is extremely common in the United States, but affect people living in other countries. However, IBS appears to affect people in the following groups:

IBS affects women more than men

• Individuals under the age of 40
• Individuals who suffer for anxiety or depression
• Family history of irritable bowel syndrome
• Individuals who have lived through traumatic experiences
• Individuals who suffer from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Physicians generally diagnose IBS by evaluating a patient's symptoms. IBS does not appear on blood test; and is usually diagnosed only after test rule out other conditions. Symptoms of IBS may be severe or mild. Those who suffer from mild cases are generally able to relieve discomfort with over-the-counter medicine. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as stress and exercise may relieve symptoms. Common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:

• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Abnormal stools (more than 3 bowel movements a day, and less than 3 bowel movements a week)

Many who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome may also experience:

• Pelvic pain
• Mucus in stool
• Blood in stool

Symptoms of IBS may persist for several years. The condition is very common, and few seek medical treatment. On average, women are affected by IBS more than men and symptoms begin to appear between the ages of 20 – 30. Although there is no cure for IBS, there are medications that can relieve discomfort. Because irritable bowel syndrome closely resembles other stomach conditions, those who begin to experience abdominal discomfort should be examined by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.

Seeking Medical Treatment

Nearly 30% of individuals who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome will not seek medical treatment. This may be fine for those with mild symptoms. However, irritable bowel syndrome may be confused with other serious conditions such as colon cancer, ovarian cancer, gallstones, fibroids, and so forth. Medical attention should be sought if the following symptoms develop.

• IBS symptoms worsen
• Feeling fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Severe abdominal discomfort
• Bloody stools

Irritable bowel syndrome does not lead to conditions such as cancer or irritable bowel inflammatory disease. However, it is possible for an IBS victim to develop these conditions. Thus, individuals with a family history of cancers such as colon, pancreatic, or stomach should alert their physicians to changes in their symptoms.

Diagnosing Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Physicians have different methods for diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome. The test preformed depends heavily on a patient's age. For example, IBS is more common in twenty-something women, thus doctors may perform a sigmoidoscopy of the intestines as the only method of diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome. On the other hand, doctors may order a series of tests for a person in their 50's who has similar symptoms. IBS may affect older individuals; however, it's rare for symptoms to begin this late in life. Other test for diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome include barium enema (X-ray of the intestines), or an endoscopy (thin tube inserted into the bowel).

Treatment Options

Unfortunately, there is no cure for irritable bowel syndrome. However, there are several techniques to help sufferers control and minimize symptoms. Individuals who suffer from severe symptoms may be prescribed the drug Zelnorm which is effective with relieving many of the symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and stress management techniques, and diet changes are also effective with calming symptoms. Eliminating foods and beverages that may trigger, or make an IBS episode worse is wise. Moreover, a diet that contains a healthy portion of fiber may lessen symptoms. These include:

• Fruits (apples, peaches, pears)
• Vegetables (green beans, broccoli, carrots, cabbage)
• Breads
• Beans
• Bran cereal
• Fiber bars or wafers
• Apple juice
• Prune juice

Including more fiber into diets is ideal for relieving constipation that is related to irritable bowel syndrome. Individuals who experience persistent diarrhea should avoid a high-fiber diet and consult their physician about anti-spasmodic drugs that are intended to ease diarrhea.