Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common but often misunderstood digestive disorder that affects the lives of millions of people worldwide. Although the symptoms – such as abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits – are real, it is important to know that IBS is a functional disorder, which can be managed effectively with the right strategy.
From Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Our specialists are committed to helping patients regain their quality of life through state-of-the-art diagnostics and personalised treatments.
What exactly is IBS?
The essence of IBS is the gut-brain axis a disruption in communication. Due to a fault in the bidirectional connection between the digestive system and the central nervous system, the intestines become overly sensitive to normal stimuli (visceral hypersensitivity).
Important to note: IBS is a chronic but benign condition. It does not lead to cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and does not cause structural damage to the digestive system.
The main types of IBS:
- IBS-D (with diarrhoea): It is characterised by frequent, urgent, loose stools.
- IBS-C (Constipation-predominant): It is characterised by infrequent bowel movements, hard stools and straining.
- IBS-M (Mixed): Periods of diarrhoea and constipation alternate.
- IBS-U (Unclassified): The symptoms cannot be clearly categorised into the above groups.
The complex underlying causes of IBS
Science has identified the interplay of several factors underlying this:
Physiological and biological factors
- Motility disorder: Contractions of the intestinal muscles that are either too strong or too weak.
- Low-grade inflammation: An increased number of immune cells in the intestinal mucosa.
- Impaired intestinal barrier function: Due to the „leaky gut”, foreign substances can enter the bloodstream.
- Disbiosis: An imbalance in the gut flora.
- SIBO: Bloating and pain caused by the overgrowth of abnormal bacteria in the small intestine.
Psychological and genetic factors
- Stress and anxiety: They directly influence bowel function via the brain-gut axis.
- Genetics: A pattern of clustering within families can be observed.
- Post-infectious IBS: A syndrome that develops following a previous episode of severe gastroenteritis.
Diagnosis: The Rome IV criteria
As there are no clear biological markers, the diagnosis is based on symptoms. IBS is diagnosed when recurrent abdominal pain has occurred on at least one day a week over the past three months and is associated with bowel movements or a change in the frequency or consistency of stools.
When is further investigation required? (Warning signs)
- New symptoms in people over 50.
- Blood in the stools or iron-deficiency anaemia.
- Night-time diarrhoea that wakes the patient.
- Unexplained weight loss.
At Endomedix, the examination involves laboratory tests and, if necessary, a painless colonoscopy to rule out any organ-related problems.
Treatment options and tips
The treatment of IBS is based on several pillars:
1. Dietary changes
- Low FODMAP diet: Temporarily cutting out certain carbohydrates (wheat, onions, dairy products) with the help of a dietitian.
- Grate coating: The use of soluble fibre (oats, psyllium husks) to normalise stool consistency.
- Food diary: It helps you identify your personal „trigger” foods.
2. Lifestyle and Psychology
- Regular exercise: A 20- to 30-minute walk every day stimulates bowel function.
- Stress management: Yoga, meditation or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
- Gut-specific hypnotherapy: To reduce gut sensitivity.
3. Drug therapy
- Antispasmodics: Peppermint oil capsules or targeted medicines.
- Probiotics: To restore the balance of the gut flora.
- Antibiotics: A non-absorbable antibiotic (rifaximin) for SIBO.
- Low-dose antidepressants: To relieve the symptoms of abdominal pain.
Summary: IBS is a real and challenging condition, but you don’t have to cope with it on your own. An accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan are the key to becoming symptom-free. Please contact the Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Turn to our experienced specialists and take the first step towards a balanced life!
