IBS Awareness Month

April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal(GI) disorder in which abdominal pain is associated with a range of symptoms. These usually include abdominal pain that comes and goes which is accompanied by diarrhea, constipation, or alternating episodes of both. Other symptoms such as bloating and gas, may also be present.  

IBS involves the small and large intestines and disturbs motility and sensation. The exact cause of IBS is not known. It is sometimes called a brain-gut disorder because it is believed that symptoms may result from a disturbance in the way the gut, brain, and nervous system interact. This can cause changes in normal bowel movement and sensation. 

There is a great deal of confusion with IBS.  What is important to know is that IBS…

• Is a long-term condition
• Symptoms can usually be managed so that you feel better
• ymptoms tend to come and go over time, and often change over time
• Symptoms can usually be managed so that you feel better
• Is not a risk for cancer or colitis
• Does not cause malnutrition
• Does not get worse with age, and
• Does not shorten life span

If you have recurrent abdominal pain and bowel problems or if your daily schedule is often ruled by intestinal discomfort, get help. Talk to your healthcare practitioner.  Although there is currently no cure for IBS, there are ways to improve symptoms and feel better. 

Before visiting your health care practitioner, keep a symptom diary so that you have good information to share about how you are feeling and what might be triggering your symptoms.  Click here for a Sample Diary.

Click here for a Health Promotion Activity Plan on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

References

https://www.aboutibs.org/ibs-awareness-month.html

https://www.aboutibs.org/facts-about-ibs.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360016