If you go through medical transcripts of the dark ages, the middle period, and even the Renaissance, you will find that most experts spent far more time discussing and writing on the anomalies of the gut and digestive system than other serious conditions of the body. The reason? While symptoms of grave illnesses, such as cancer or a tumor manifest slowly, a funny stomach hits you hard, you have to go to the loo, you hear bizarre noises from inside, have pain defecting, and the list can go on.

So, in this article, we will be reading about the most common type of gastrointestinal disorder around, no drum roll here: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and its associated complications.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Commonly referred to as IBS, any Dubai Hospital on any given day accommodates a vast number of patients affected by the disease. This is because in Dubai, there’s such a diverse array of stuff to indulge into, we often opt for things that’s not suited for our body. But this is just one of the reasons, IBS is much more than just lifestyle and dietary choices. So, what is it?

IBS is one of the most uncomfortable experiences one can go through. Those with the condition suffer from abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. Worst of all, it’s a chronic condition that needs to be managed long term by a gastroenterology specialist in Dubai. The only silver lining here is that IBS doesn’t elevate the chances of contracting Colorectal Cancer.

What are the Symptoms of IBS?

Symptoms for the disease vary, but usually persist for a long time. The most common ones include:


• Pain, cramping, or bloating in the abdomen associated with having a bowel movement
• Differences to the way a bowel movement looks
• Modifications to the frequency of bowel movements

Increased gas or mucus in the stool, and the feeling of incomplete defecation are two more often associated symptoms.

What Causes IBS?

Scientists are not in consensus on pinpointing the exact cause of the disease, some key factors that bring the onset of IBS include:


Uneven Contractions in the Intestine

The intestine is composed of thick walls of muscle that contract, essentially providing a passage for the food to move through the digestive tract. If for any reason the contractions are uneven, i.e., if they’re weak, food will move slowly, leading to constipation and painful stool. If the contractions are strong, you’ll experience gas, bloating and/or diarrhea. The only way to have nice and even contractions is by eating a balanced diet.

Problems with the Nervous System

Your belly aching from gas or stool might be the result of problems with the nerves in your digestive system. Inadequate communication between the brain and the intestines might lead to an overreaction by your body to normal changes that take place during digestion. Pain, diarrhea, or constipation might arise from this.

Infection

After a severe episode of diarrhea brought on by a virus or bacterium, IBS may develop. This is referred to as Gastroenteritis. Moreover, bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, may potentially be linked to IBS.

Stress

If you’re someone who has had a rough early life, then you are more susceptible to IBS. Research has demonstrated that physical and mental struggles can lead to complications of the gastrointestinal tract.

Gut Microbes

A lot of different types of mico-organisms dwell inside our bodies to aid in the health and recovery of various organ functions. Research has shown that people with IBS have an abnormal number of microbes residing in their intestines.

Risk Factors

While risk factors vary from person to person, someone with the following characteristics is more prone to have the disease:

• Young; under the age of 25
• Female
• Have a family history of IBS
• Suffer from severe mental health disorders


Furthermore, if IBS isn’t managed well, it is guaranteed to negatively impact the overall quality of life. For instance, it can make a person lethargic and overweight, it can lead to absenteeism from school or work, and can also open the door to anxiety and depression.

How is IBS Cared for?

Physicians may prescribe medications, probiotics, dietary modifications, and mental health therapies to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). To determine which therapy is most effective for you, you might need to try a few. To choose the best course of action, consult your gastroenterology Dubai specialist.