What Are the Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Am I at Risk?
6/1/2023
The GI condition irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can largely affect your daily life in many ways. Causing irritation in the large intestine, stomach, and surrounding areas of the digestive system, irritable bowel syndrome typically creates unfortunate symptoms.
At Colorado Gastroenterology, we understand the discomforting symptoms this condition may have on your health, well-being, and life quality. Our gastrointestinal providers regularly treat IBS in Denver, CO patients and are ready to assist you in limiting its effects. Read below to learn what might be the cause of this GI condition and determine whether you are at risk.
How does irritable bowel syndrome develop in a person?
The cause of IBS is unknown at this time. It’s thought to result from a disconnect between the brain (which is in charge of gut function) and the gastrointestinal system, leading gastroenterologists to call it “the brain-gut disorder.” This disturbance can lead to functional problems inside the gastrointestinal tract, causing the muscles to move food through the large and small intestines at a pace that is either too fast or too slow. IBS is also called “spastic colon” as a result of the colon spasms that often are associated with this condition.
Many things may be irritable bowel syndrome triggers, including:
- Changes in your microbial makeup of your intestines
- Caffeinated beverages
- Fluctuations in hormones
- Intestinal infections (bacterial or viral gastroenteritis)
- Alcohol use
- Stresses throughout life
- Foods that are fatty or spicy
Being able to recognize IBS triggers and your chances of developing irritable bowel syndrome helps you better manage your body’s reception in the event you get irritable bowel syndrome.
What are IBS risk factors?
IBS is an involved gastro problem. A variety of components might combine to lead to IBS’s beginning or reoccurrence. A few factors that might magnify one’s risk of IBS comprise:
- Lifestyle: Poor diet, not exercising, tobacco or alcohol use, and obesity can all heighten the risk of IBS.
- Familial history: Some patients could be genetically susceptible of getting IBS.
- Being female: Irritable bowel syndrome is twice as frequent in women than men.
- Age of the individual: Individuals of just about every age could have the condition; however, it often begins during the teenage years or early adulthood. It is less common to develop in those over 50 years of age.
- Mental health: Mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, can increase your risk of developing the condition.
If you think you could be at risk of developing IBS or have other GI concerns, we ask you to request an appointment at a Colorado Gastroenterology location in your area.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
Irritable bowel symptoms can differ from person to person. Traditionally, IBS symptoms in women are different from IBS symptoms in men and usually even differ in strength. Many people with irritable bowel syndrome have minor effects. Some of the well-known symptoms of IBS are:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Mucus in the stool
- Difficulty passing stools
- Bloating
- Gassiness
- Nauseousness
- Abdominal cramping
If you have any one of these symptoms or recognize a shift in your bathroom tendencies, you should consult with a GI specialist. Our team of GI doctors in Denver, CO can evaluate your symptoms to verify if irritable bowel syndrome is causing your symptoms.
How is IBS treated?
Even though preventing IBS is not really possible, action can be taken to help reduce its consequences. Taking care of IBS often involves managing related symptoms to keep symptoms at bay over time. Soothing symptoms and dealing with irritable bowel syndrome might include changing your lifestyle, such as adding high-fiber foods into your diet, getting your daily intake of water, starting a daily exercise routine, and understanding the IBS triggers. Medications can also help alleviate symptoms, like anti-nausea, anticholinergic, anti-diarrheal, and antidepressant medications. Laxatives and fiber supplements are often suggested to take care of commonly associated issues that often spark the disorder.
Get IBS treatment in Denver, CO
In addition to causing discomforting symptoms, irritable bowel syndrome can make many people feel defeated and without hope. Rest assured, however, that it is possible to experience relief from this chronic illness. The team of gastroenterologists at Colorado Gastroenterology delivers the necessary care for IBS and is here to help guide you to a better quality of life. To learn more about irritable bowel syndrome self-care and to find a GI doctor who can treat this condition in Denver, CO, get in touch with a location in your community to request a consultation.