Irritable bowel syndrome is extremely frustrating and distressing. That’s why it’s important to get a consultation and get a diagnosis as soon as possible, so get the treatment you need and get your symptoms under control.
“Irritable bowel syndrome can disrupt the routine of life. However, it is not life-threatening, nor is it associated with a higher risk of cancer,” says Olesya Basina, a gastroenterologist at the Association of Health Centers. On the other hand, the pharmacist of “Mēnes aptiekas” Ieva Turonoka admits that various disorders related to the digestive system are one of the most frequent reasons why people rush to the pharmacy. Discomfort in the digestive tract has become a very common complaint. One ailment that literally stands out for its bewildering array of symptoms is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that can significantly impair quality of life, making you feel unhappy and isolated.
Definition, prevalence and causes
“CHD is essentially a chronic condition that is considered a functional condition and is usually characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel function,” explains Olesya Basina. Unfortunately, the causes of KZS are still unclear. Changes in the balance of gut bacteria, sensitivity to stress or certain foods may be to blame. Sometimes it can be caused by severe infectious diseases, including influenza and Covid-19. Other causes are also possible. But the good news is that as understanding of the syndrome continues to evolve, so does the approach to treatment and living with this chronic condition. “Knowing what to keep in mind, patients will be able to navigate their ‘digestive labyrinth’, even despite the complexity of the GI tract,” says the doctor.
When to look for help
“When we talk to pharmacy visitors, despite the fact that diarrhea is predominant in these cases, people are most confused by the mixed symptoms, namely when diarrhea alternates with constipation,” the pharmacist shares her daily observations. In addition, many patients have severe pain or bloating. “Therefore, KZS patients can have many symptoms, and in such cases it is necessary to go to the doctor to try to decipher the complex picture and arrive at a diagnosis. This is what we, pharmacists, usually encourage to do as well.”
How to reach a diagnosis
“Certainly, the medical history is important, the patient’s age and gender also play a role in weight. First of all, it is important to rule out other acute and life-threatening diseases, paying special attention to patients over 50 years of age who have unexplained weight loss, a family history of gastrointestinal malignancies, blood in the stool, or any abnormalities in the blood count. Younger people, on the other hand, should be tested to rule out celiac disease, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, and only then should they tackle KZS as a possible cause of the symptoms, because, as we have already found out – although very painful, if treated and controlled, it is not life-threatening. ” explains Olesya Basina.
Diet is irreplaceable!
Choosing the right diet is the foundation of the foundation. Conversely, if one eats inappropriately, symptoms continue and may even worsen. A diet that excludes fermentations, oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols from the menu as much as possible can help. It sounds complicated and, therefore, it will not be easy without knowledge about nutrition, so consultation of a nutritionist is desirable.
Bacteria in the small intestine ferment carbohydrates, creating a lot of gas and “bringing” a lot of fluid into the intestines, which causes diarrhea in KZS patients. On the other hand, following the special diet, there are no these specific carbohydrates in the intestines, therefore, the possibility of flatulence and diarrhea decreases. The doctor adds that it is also worth trying a diet without gluten and dairy products. They are used by celiac patients and people with lactose intolerance. Sometimes such dietary recommendations also help in cases of KZS.
