IBS Pain: Things You Need To Know!

Having gastrointestinal issues once in a while may not be an indication of Irritable Bowel Syndrome(IBS). IBS is a combination of many symptoms.

So being knowledgeable about IBS, its pain location, other symptoms, and treatments will help you to eliminate your doubts and confusions regarding IBS. Read along to get more information.

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

It is a common condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract or the so-called GI tract. It can affect your digestive system. It is believed that malabsorption of certain nutrients can result in IBS. The reasons for IBS may vary from person to person.  But in some cases, an exact reason can not be drawn. 

Some common triggers behind Irritable bowel syndrome are:

Although experts are not sure of the exact reason behind IBS, people with these reasons are prone to developing IBS.

The condition can also worsen certain processes in the body. For example, women with IBS may experience severe pain and discomfort during menstruation.

Altogether IBS may seem like a difficult condition to deal with, but bringing a few changes in the daily routine can alleviate the symptoms of IBS. Before bringing all the changes in your life, we have to diagnose whether the symptoms are actually of IBS. Let’s look at the ways to diagnose IBS.

How to Diagnose IBS?

The help of a medical professional is needed in diagnosing IBS. That means self-diagnosing IBS is not possible. Some symptoms of IBS can be confused with other illnesses. So leave it to the professionals. 

Blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopy, endoscopy, and hydrogen breath tests can help diagnose the condition.

A doctor will recommend the appropriate test only after hearing about your symptoms. IBS symptoms change from person to person. It is one of the challenges that make IBS difficult to self-diagnose. Common symptoms of IBS are

• Abdominal pain-  The pain can be located anywhere in the stomach. Sometimes IBS pain may feel excruciating. For some people, abdominal pain may go away after bowel movements. A bloated and gassy stomach is also a sign of IBS. If you feel like your stomach is always full, the feeling of fullness may also be a sign of IBS.
• Diarrhea and constipation-  When some people experience constipation as an IBS symptom. Others experience diarrhea. In some other cases of IBS, people may experience both symptoms. Finding blood in your stool is also an indication of inflammation. 
• Weight loss – If you are losing body weight without dieting or exercising, this sudden weight reduction is also a sign of IBS. Malabsorption of some nutrients is the reason behind this sudden weight loss.
• Vomiting – Nausea and vomiting are two common symptoms of IBS. Vomiting in the morning or after a taking meal is a sign of IBS. 

People with specific food sensitivities and allergies may also experience the same symptoms. So rather than self-diagnosing your symptoms, it is better to see a doctor.

IBS Treatments

IBS treatment mainly aims to alleviate the symptoms. So the person can live freely without undergoing difficulties in their daily life. Certain symptoms have the potential to make the daily routine difficult for you. So taking medication will give enough relief by reducing the symptoms.

In mild cases of IBS, proper dieting can help. Consulting a dietitian will help you to determine a healthy diet.

It is better to avoid specific food items that can make your IBS worse. Avoiding food items like carbonated beverages, alcohol, gluten, some fruits and vegetables, and dairy products will help.

Read More:- How Is High Cholesterol Treated? Managing High Cholesterol Effectively

Conclusion

Now that you are familiar with IBS and things to do if you have any suspicions about having IBS. So remember to consult a professional when needed.

Try to lead a stressless lifestyle. Shift to a healthy diet. If you have medicines, take them as per the doctor’s advice. Drink enough water and stay hydrated.