Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a very common condition affecting the digestive system and is often chronic, meaning it can last a lifetime, impacting the patient's daily life. This article details the symptoms of IBS and diagnostic methods.

Symptoms of IBS

IBS symptoms vary between individuals, with some experiencing more intense and severe symptoms than others, while others encounter symptoms intermittently, with symptom-free periods in between. Here’s a breakdown of common and less common symptoms:

• Common Symptoms

These are the most frequent symptoms of IBS episodes:

1. Persistent abdominal pain and cramps, usually related to the urge to poop.
2. Gas buildup and bloating.
3. Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between them.
4. A constant urge to have a bowel movement, feeling like the bowels aren’t fully emptied after passing stool.
5. Mucus in the stool, which may appear white.
6. Changes in stool appearance and frequency.

Less Common Symptoms

In addition to the main symptoms, some may experience:

1. Fatigue and low energy.
2. Heartburn.
3. Migraines.
4. Sleep disturbances.
5. Chronic pelvic pain.
6. Fibromyalgia.
7. Nausea.
8. Back pain.
9. Urinary issues, like frequent urination, sudden urge, or difficulty fully emptying the bladder.

• Psychological Symptoms

Though many people with IBS manage symptoms well and lead normal lives, others find the symptoms significantly impact their quality of life, even preventing them from engaging in essential activities. For these individuals, IBS may also be linked to:

1. Low mood.
2. Chronic stress.
3. Anxiety and depression.

• Symptoms That Require Medical Attention

If any of the following symptoms appear, you should see a doctor right away, as they may indicate a more serious condition:

1. Unexplained weight loss.
2. Rectal bleeding or bloody diarrhea.
3. A hard lump or swelling in the abdomen.
4. Shortness of breath.
5. Pale skin.
6. Heart palpitations.
7. Changes in bowel habits lasting longer than six weeks for individuals over 50. 

IBS Triggers

People with IBS often notice certain factors that can trigger or worsen symptoms:

• Menstrual cycle: Women with IBS typically find that symptoms worsen before or during their period.
• Certain foods: Trigger foods vary between individuals, but common ones include dairy products, gluten-containing foods like wheat, and foods and drinks known to cause gas.
• Stress: Symptoms often intensify during stressful periods, which is why IBS is sometimes called "nervous stomach" or "anxious stomach."

Diagnosing IBS

Doctors diagnose IBS through a comprehensive physical exam to look for specific symptoms. They will also ask about the patient’s medical history, including when symptoms started, their frequency, any changes in stool appearance, medications taken, and other relevant questions.

The doctor will rule out symptoms indicating other conditions, looking for "red flags" like unexplained weight loss, anemia, and severe pain that wakes the patient from sleep, among others listed in the section on symptoms requiring a doctor’s visit.

Afterward, various tests and imaging may be requested, as no single test definitively diagnoses IBS. Here are some commonly used diagnostic methods:

• Laboratory Tests

These tests help rule out other causes for the symptoms, like food intolerances or inflammatory bowel disease:

1. Hydrogen breath test: Detects food intolerances or overgrowth of bacteria in your gut (SIBO).
2. Stool analysis: Checks for infections or inflammation in the intestines and digestive system.
3. Blood tests: Used to diagnose or rule out certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as lactose intolerance.

Blazma provides many of the tests a doctor might request, including stool analysis, Occult test, Food Allergy, and more.

• Imaging

Doctors may also request imaging tests to rule out conditions that cause abnormal growth in the digestive tract, including:

1. Colonoscopy: Helps identify polyps, tumors, and other abnormalities.
2. Upper endoscopy: Useful in diagnosing digestive disorders.