It has been called many things over the years. Some call it Spastic Colon, while others refer to it as Mucous Colitis, however, the medical profession now recognizes IBS for what it is, Irritable Bowel Syndrome. In cases of IBS, the colon ceases to function the way it should. This can result in drastic changes in bowel habits including reoccurring pain of the abdomen.

Mysterious Muscle Spasms

The human colon acts something like a snake. Human waste is processed through the bowels by a series of muscle contractions, which is called peristalsis. Contraction of these muscles occurs behind waste, moving it through the colon section by section. The muscle in front of the solid waste is relaxed to allow smooth movement of waste material. When IBS, a functional disorder, sets in, this smooth bowel movement is interrupted by muscle spasms in the colon that cause acute discomfort and irritates the entire waste disposal process.

The Symptoms of IBS

The amazing waste disposal system that we have is a very efficient process. Bowel function is different for everyone. Most people will experience small problems every once in a while, however, IBS may present as chronic, reoccurring discomfort, pain, and other problems such as diarrhea. Other symptoms of IBS can include the following:

– Stomach pain that is usually relieved after defecation has occurred
– A feeling of moderate to severe bloating
– Excessive gas
– A feeling that you still need to defecate, even after you are finished
– Mucus in the stool or the passing of mucus
– A change in your normal routine, including frequency and consistency
– Feeling nauseous

The Mystery

No one knows what causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome and while it can certainly be a symptom of another disease, it often presents alone, making it quite the medical mystery. The reason no one understands the cause of IBS is that there are no tracking elements. There is no infection, it does not involve inflammation, and there are no structural changes to be identified as clues. It is completely a functional disorder. However, the thinking is that it may be a communications problem within the body.

The Communication Theory

People with IBS appear to have overly sensitive colons. The communication theory is that there may be a problem between the brain interaction with the intestines and the autonomic nervous system, which causes muscle spasms or sudden contractions in the colon. The culprits that trigger these responses could be:

– Stress
– Poor diet
– Hormonal changes in the body.
– Genetics
– Psychological distress
– Childhood experiences
– Other problems such as sudden development of sensitivity resulting in spasms

Protect and Self Education

If you or someone you love has IBS, you should consult your physician to check for underlying causes. It is smart to rule out IBS as a symptom of another disease first. Education of how the body works through HIPAA Training and evaluation of recent diet changes may provide some insight to the cause of IBS. It may be wise to identify stress triggers at home or work and look for answers in recent prescription medication interaction with over the counter drugs. To relieve the symptoms of IBS, it is recommended that we increase our fiber intake to help soften stool so that it may pass through the body easier.

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Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Hormonal changes ,Psychological distress,communications problem ,infection,IPAA Security Rule