Irritable bowel syndrome - causes, symptoms and diagnosis

Irritable bowel syndrome: causes and symptoms

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition that affects the digestive system. The exact causes of irritable bowel syndrome are not yet fully understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors play a role. Typical irritable bowel symptoms are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. These symptoms can vary greatly and often lead to significant impairment in everyday life. Women in particular are more likely to suffer from irritable bowel symptoms than men. This could be due to hormonal differences and a higher susceptibility to stress.

How is irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed?

Irritable bowel syndrome is diagnosed by ruling out other conditions. A doctor will take a thorough medical history and perform physical examinations. Additional tests such as blood tests, stool samples and imaging may be necessary to rule out other conditions. Often, specific criteria, such as the Rome IV criteria, are used to make the diagnosis. A specific irritable bowel syndrome symptom test can help identify and classify symptoms.

What helps with irritable bowel syndrome?

There are various approaches to alleviating the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Dietary adjustments, stress management and medication play a central role. Many sufferers find relief by individually adapting their lifestyle and receiving support from medical professionals. Irritable bowel medication and special irritable bowel therapies can help reduce symptoms.

Nutritional tips for irritable bowel syndrome patients

Diet plays a crucial role in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. It is recommended to avoid foods that can aggravate symptoms, such as fatty foods, caffeine and alcohol. A high-fiber diet can help with constipation, while soluble fiber should be preferred for diarrhea. The FODMAP concept , which involves avoiding certain fermentable carbohydrates, has also proven effective. FODMAPs (fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides and polyols) are short carbohydrates and sugar alcohols that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and therefore ferment in the large intestine. This can lead to the typical irritable bowel symptoms.

A typical FODMAP diet list includes:

• High FODMAP foods (to avoid): wheat, rye, legumes, high-lactose dairy products, certain fruits (such as apples and pears), certain vegetables (such as onions and garlic), artificial sweeteners.
• Low FODMAP foods (preferable): rice, oats, lactose-free dairy products, bananas, berries, carrots, spinach, sugar substitutes such as stevia.

FODZYME is a dietary supplement that contains enzymes that help digest FODMAPs. It can be taken before meals to facilitate the absorption of FODMAPs and thereby reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Stress management and irritable bowel syndrome

Stress has a significant impact on irritable bowel syndrome. Techniques such as yoga, meditation and breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels and thus alleviate symptoms. It can also be helpful to seek psychological support to deal with the emotional stress of the illness. A nervous bowel is often particularly sensitive to stress, so effective stress management is important to reduce symptoms such as abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome.

Treatment options: medication and alternative therapies

There are various medications that can be used to relieve symptoms, including antispasmodics, laxatives, and anti-diarrheal medications. Probiotics can also be helpful. In addition to drug treatment, there are numerous alternative therapies such as acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and herbal remedies that have been used successfully in some patients. Medications for irritable bowel syndrome can significantly improve quality of life, as can alternative irritable bowel therapies. Irritable bowel medications and irritable bowel syndrome medications are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Important self-help measures

Those affected can do a lot to alleviate their symptoms through simple self-help measures. These include regular exercise, drinking enough fluids and keeping a symptom diary to better identify triggers. Exchanging information with other sufferers in self-help groups can also be very helpful. Self-help measures and understanding your own symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are essential for improving your well-being.

Conclusion: Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Living with irritable bowel syndrome can be challenging, but with the right approach and support, it is possible to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Individualized dietary adjustments, effective stress management and good cooperation with medical professionals are crucial here. Those affected should not be afraid to try different treatment options and consistently implement self-help measures in order to make their everyday life as optimal as possible. Understanding the causes of irritable bowel syndrome and the right treatment can help to relieve symptoms and lead a normal life.