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What is IBS?

What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a widespread and often challenging Disorder of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI) that affects millions globally. Characterized by a range of symptoms like recurrent abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, IBS is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Despite its significant impact, IBS remains a complex and frequently misunderstood condition.

What is IBS?

IBS is classified as a Disorder of Gut-Brain Interaction. While the digestive system may appear normal in standard diagnostic tests, it does not function as it should. This disorder is marked by a combination of symptoms, primarily recurrent abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both.

Globally, IBS affects about 11% of the population¹, making it one of the most common DGBIs. Patients often experience additional symptoms such as excessive wind (gas), nausea, and bloating. Despite the absence of visible damage to the digestive tract, these symptoms can vary widely in severity and frequency, leading to significant disruptions in daily life.

Types of IBS

IBS can be classified into several types based on the predominant bowel habit:

  • IBS with Constipation (IBS-C): Characterized by infrequent bowel movements, hard or lumpy stools, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation.
  • IBS with Diarrhoea (IBS-D): Marked by frequent, loose, or watery stools, often accompanied by an urgent need to use the bathroom.
  • Mixed IBS (IBS-M): Involves alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhoea, often in an unpredictable pattern.

Despite its prevalence, only about 30-50% of individuals with IBS symptoms seek medical help². Among those who do seek help, 50% report feeling unsupported by healthcare providers, and 60% feel their concerns are not taken seriously³.

The Psychological Impact of IBS

IBS is not just a physical condition—it has profound psychological implications as well. Around 40-60% of people with IBS also suffer from anxiety disorders⁴, and 30-40% are diagnosed with depression⁵. The psychological burden is significant, with more than half of IBS patients experiencing notable psychological distress. This distress can exacerbate physical symptoms, creating a challenging cycle that is difficult to break.

Managing IBS

IBS is a chronic condition, meaning it requires long-term management. Management strategies typically focus on symptom relief and improving quality of life. These can include:

  • Pharmaceutical Products: Medications may be effective to address the most troublesome symptoms.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Identifying and avoiding trigger foods, following a low-FODMAP diet, or increasing fibre intake can help manage symptoms.
  • Behavioural Interventions: Techniques such as gut-directed hypnotherapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help reduce the impact of stress on IBS symptoms.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a complex disorder that affects the body, mind, and daily life. With a global prevalence of around 11%, IBS is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders, yet it remains underdiagnosed and often misunderstood. The condition not only causes significant physical discomfort but also contributes to psychological distress and economic burdens. Understanding IBS, its symptoms, and the available management strategies can help those affected by this condition lead more comfortable and fulfilling lives. While IBS may not have a cure, with the right approach, it is possible to manage symptoms effectively and improve overall quality of life.

References

  1. Lovell, R. M., & Ford, A. C. (2012). Global prevalence of and risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome: a meta-analysis. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 10(7), 712-721.e4. doi:10.1016/j.cgh.2012.02.029

  2. Thompson, W. G., Heaton, K. W., Smyth, G. T., & Smyth, C. (2000). Irritable bowel syndrome in general practice: prevalence, characteristics, and referral. Gut, 46(1), 78-82. doi:10.1136/gut.46.1.78

  3. Dancey, C. P., & Backhouse, S. (1993). Towards a better understanding of patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 18(9), 1443-1450.

  4. Fond, G., Loundou, A., Hamdani, N., Boukouaci, W., Dargel, A., Olivera, M., ... & Leboyer, M. (2014). Anxiety and depression comorbidities in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a systematic review and meta-analysis. European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, 264(8), 651-660.