What is actually a
Irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), irritable bowel syndrome or irritable colon syndrome, is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal discomfort. It is one of the most common gastroenterological diseases, affecting millions of people worldwide. The main features of irritable bowel syndrome are abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating and altered bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation or an alternation between the two. These symptoms usually occur over a period of at least three months and are often described as a feeling of cramping or pressure in the abdomen.
About the symptoms
More information
Important facts about irritable bowel syndrome
Symptoms and consequences of irritable bowel syndrome:
- Chronic abdominal complaints lasting longer than three months
- Changed bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation or an alternation between the two
- Flatulence and increased gas in the intestines
- Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
- Mucus in the stool
- Impairment of quality of life due to chronic complaints
- Restricted everyday activities and social activities
- Influence on mental well-being, stress, anxiety or depression may increase
What causes irritable bowel syndrome?
The exact causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are not yet fully understood, as it is a complex disorder. However, there are various factors that are considered as possible causes or triggers. The most important causes are
Abnormal bowel movement
Abnormal bowel movement
Disturbed movement of the intestinal muscles, which leads to changes in bowel movements and thus constipation or diarrhea.
Sensitive bowel
Sensitive bowel
A sensitive bowel that reacts sensitively to normal bowel movements or gas formation.
Gut-brain axis
Gut-brain axis
Disrupted communication between the gut and the brain.
Psychological factors
Psychological factors
These can be stress, anxiety and depression, for example.
Intestinal flora and food
Intestinal flora and food
Changes in the microbiome (intestinal flora) or intolerances to certain foods, such as foods containing gluten or FODMAPs (fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides and polyols).
How is irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a diagnosis that is made when other possible diseases with similar symptoms have been ruled out. These include inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, food intolerances, tumors and other gastrointestinal disorders. A thorough medical history and specific tests are carried out for this purpose.
If there are no organic findings in any of the examinations and the symptoms described, digestive problems and changes in bowel movements, also meet the following criteria, the diagnosis of “irritable bowel syndrome” can be made:
Chronic abdominal pain or discomfort (persistent symptoms for at least 3 months)
Significantly impaired quality of life due to the complaints
Other causes excluded
What can I do about my irritable bowel syndrome?
Nutrition and fluid intake
Some people benefit from a reduction in FODMAPs, which can cause digestive problems. A food diary can help to identify possible triggers and adjust the diet accordingly. Probiotic food supplements can also support the intestinal flora. Also make sure you drink enough fluids to support the bowel well and maintain adequate hydration.
Stress management and
Movement
Stress can exacerbate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises or regular walks can help to reduce stress and improve well-being. This also includes sport and exercise, which have a positive effect on the intestinal flora as well as reducing stress.
Supplementary measures and medical treatment
Depending on the symptoms, antidiarrheal drugs or laxatives for constipation and spasmolytics to calm the bowel are used for drug therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove complicated sections of the bowel or to remove blockages. In cases where irritable bowel syndrome is related to psychological stress or anxiety, psychological support or psychotherapy may be recommended to improve coping.
What are the FODMAPs? - Avoid substances that trigger digestive complaints
FODMAPs are different groups of carbohydrates and sugar molecules in food that can cause digestive problems in some people. Reducing the intake of FODMAPs can help relieve symptoms in some people with IBS. However, it is important that the diet is followed under expert guidance to ensure a balanced diet and avoid possible nutritional deficiencies.
FODMAP stands for:
F - Fermentable
This means that these carbohydrates can be fermented (broken down) by bacteria in the intestine.
O - Oligosaccharides
These include fructans and galactans. Fructans are found in foods such as wheat, rye, onions and garlic. Galactans are found in pulses such as beans, lentils and chickpeas.
D - Disaccharides
The best-known disaccharides are lactose, which is found in dairy products, and sucrose, which is found in table sugar.
M - Monosaccharides
This includes fructose, which is found in some fruits such as apples, pears and honey.
AP - Other carbohydrates (polyols)
Polyols are sugar alcohols found in certain types of fruit and sugar-free sweets and chewing gum. Examples are sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol.
This means that these carbohydrates can be fermented (broken down) by bacteria in the intestine.
These include fructans and galactans. Fructans are found in foods such as wheat, rye, onions and garlic. Galactans are found in pulses such as beans, lentils and chickpeas.
The best-known disaccharides are lactose, which is found in dairy products, and sucrose, which is found in table sugar.
This includes fructose, which is found in some fruits such as apples, pears and honey.
Polyols are sugar alcohols found in certain types of fruit and sugar-free sweets and chewing gum. Examples are sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol.
Sources
Please note that all content provided regarding individual medical conditions, treatments, procedures, etc. is general information and may vary depending on the physician:in and individual case and initial situation.
For more detailed information, please always consult your doctor.
Layer P, Andresen V, Pehl C et al. Update S3-Leitlinie Reizdarmsyndrom: Definition, Pathophysiologie, Diagnostik und Therapie. 2021; 59(12): 1323-1415.
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gastroenerologie, Verdauungs- und Stoffwechselkrankheiten, (DGVS): "Reizdarmsyndrom – Aufruhr im Darm" (2021)
Herold, G.: Innere Medizin, 2021
