Irritable Bowel Syndrome

What is "irritable bowel syndrome"?

“Irritable bowel syndrome” is a condition where the intestines become much more sensitive and irritable than they normally should be. People who have irritable bowel syndrome have a much lower threshold for experiencing pain resulting from stretching or movement of their intestines than people who do not have irritable bowel syndrome.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome or IBS?

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome - or IBS - can range from abdominal pain, bloating, occasionally nausea, diarrhea, constipation, a combination of diarrhea, constipation and general sensitivity, and pain and cramping of the abdomen.

What is the treatment for irritable bowel syndrome?

The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is centred on the treatment of symptoms of this condition. If one has excess bloating or discomfort, or changes in their bowel habits, we try to adjust dietary or lifestyle measures that can help these symptoms. There are medications available that can treat cramping, and prevent the severe pain or discomfort associated with this disease. There are medications that can help with changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea. There are sometimes antidepressant medicines that are given, not because of depression necessarily, but because these medicines sometimes can decrease the sensation of pain and discomfort in the intestines that can help a lot of our patients significantly.