Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS is a disorder characterized most commonly by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. IBS causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it does not permanently harm the intestine and does not lead to a serious disease, such as cancer.

Our cover this week is IBS that is irritable bowel syndrome which is a very common problem in primary care affecting nearly all section of the population. Although it is a functional bowel disorder, it significantly affects the day to day activity with morbidity. It usually presents in three forms: (1) Abdominal pain and bloating relieved by defecation, (2)  Predominant diarrhea (3) Predominant constipation. One theory is that people who suffer from IBS have a colon, or large intestine that is particularly sensitive and reactive to certain food and stress. The immune system, which fights infection may also be involved.

Normal morbidity, or movement, may not be present in the colon of a person who has IBS. It can be spasmodic or can even stop working temporarily spasms are sudden strong muscle contractions that come and go. The treatment for IBS differs from person to person. People who can identify particular foods or types of stress that bring on the problem should avoid them if possible. In general a normal diet is best. Some people with IBS can improve their condition by eating more fibres, especially if the main problem is constipation. Drugs that slow the function of the GI tract, have not been proved effective, although they are frequently prescribed.