Irritable Bowel Syndrome/Irritable Bowel Disease in Indore

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Description

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning that there are no structural abnormalities, but the bowel does not work correctly, leading to recurrent symptoms. IBS involves the large intestine, also known as the colon. It is manifested through abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits such as diarrhoea, constipation, or both. It is of unknown aetiology, though contributing factors include abnormal gut motility, heightened sensitivity of the intestine, stress, gut infections, and food triggers. IBS is chronic but not life-threatening and does not cause permanent damage to the intestines.

Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) – Description

IBD is a group of chronic inflammatory conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract, associated with structural changes in the bowel and its complications. Unlike IBS, IBD is organic, meaning it involves inflammation that can damage the bowel. The main forms of IBD are Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. The exact cause is not known, but genetic influences, immune system malfunction, and environmental factors play roles. If left untreated, IBD could lead to serious complications such as bleeding, strictures, and an increased risk of colon cancer.

Types

1. Types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS with Diarrhoea: Characterised by frequent loose stools.

IBS with Constipation (IBS-C): Infrequent, hard stools.

IBS-M (mixed IBS): alternating diarrhoea and constipation.

IBS-U (unsubtyped IBS): Symptoms that do not clearly fall into the other categories.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Types

Crohn's Disease: this is an inflammation that may affect any part of the digestive tract-from the mouth to the anus-in patches. It can cause strictures, fistulas, and malnutrition.

Ulcerative Colitis: Inflammation is limited to the colon and rectum. It is usually continuous. It may cause ulcers and bleeding.

Symptoms

IBS Symptoms

Abdominal pain and cramping

Bloating and gas

Changes in stool frequency and consistency

Mucus in the stool

Symptoms often worsen with stress or certain foods

IBD Symptoms

Persistent diarrhoea, sometimes with blood or pus

Abdominal pain and cramping

Fatigue and weight loss

Fever in severe cases

Complications such as bowel obstruction or malnutrition

Prevention and Management

For IBS

Dietary Adjustments:

Avoid trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, caffeine, and alcohol.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals.

Increase soluble fibre gradually.

Stress Management:

Meditation, yoga, or counselling.

Lifestyle:

Regular exercise and enough fluid intake.

Medications:

For symptomatic treatment: antispasmodics, laxatives, or anti-diarrheal drugs

For IBD

Medical Treatment:

Anti-inflammatory drugs (aminosalicylates, corticosteroids)

Immunosuppressants or biologics for severe disease

Surgical complications: strictures, perforation, and severe bleeding.

Diet and Lifestyle:

Eat balanced meals, avoid irritants, and stay hydrated

Identify and avoid food triggers. Regular Check-ups: Colonoscopy and imaging to monitor the disease course, Early detection of complications or cancer