What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
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Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Abdominal Pain and Discomfort
One of the primary symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is chronic abdominal pain or discomfort. This pain is often associated with defecation and can vary in intensity and location within the abdomen . The pain is typically described as cramping and can be relieved or exacerbated by bowel movements .
Altered Bowel Habits
IBS is characterized by significant changes in bowel habits, which can manifest as diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. These alterations in bowel habits are a hallmark of the disorder and are used in the diagnostic criteria for IBS . Patients may experience frequent, urgent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools, often accompanied by a sensation of incomplete evacuation .
Visceral Hypersensitivity
Many IBS patients exhibit visceral hypersensitivity, meaning they have an increased sensitivity to pain within the internal organs, particularly the intestines. This heightened sensitivity can contribute to the severity of abdominal pain and discomfort experienced by IBS sufferers .
Extraintestinal Symptoms
In addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, IBS patients often report a range of extraintestinal manifestations. These can include somatic pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, which are more commonly reported by women. These extraintestinal symptoms are associated with worse gastrointestinal symptoms and can complicate the management of IBS.
Psychological and Emotional Distress
Psychosocial factors play a significant role in IBS. Many patients experience psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, which can exacerbate IBS symptoms. The interaction between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the brain-gut axis, is a critical component in the pathophysiology of IBS . Stress and emotional factors can influence the severity and frequency of symptoms .
General Physical Weakness
Patients with IBS may also experience general physical weakness, which can further impact their quality of life. This symptom, although less specific, is part of the broader symptom complex associated with IBS.
Conclusion
IBS is a multifaceted disorder characterized by a combination of gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms. Chronic abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, visceral hypersensitivity, and psychological distress are central to the condition. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for effective diagnosis and management, aiming to improve the quality of life for those affected by IBS.
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