Proper digestion is essential for a healthy lifestyle, and if there are complications in the digestive system, it can disrupt the normal course of life. There are several types of digestive disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, gastritis, and many more, that can cause problems in normal digestion. However, one that often goes undiagnosed is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The best gastroenterologists in Delhi often look for the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome to confirm this condition.
What is IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is considered a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder that affects the large intestine, which includes the cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum. People with IBS often experience diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating.
What happens in irritable bowel syndrome?
In irritable bowel syndrome, there are irregular contractions of the muscles in the colon, which lead to a hyperactive or hypoactive condition. In a hyperactive condition, food moves quickly through the intestine, causing loose motion (diarrhea), whereas in a hypoactive condition, food passes too slowly, causing constipation. People with IBS can be overly sensitive to pain; they may experience pain even during the normal digestion process. Furthermore, there can be communication problems between the gut and the brain that lead to:
- Increased intestine sensitivity
- Abnormal digestion
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Irregular bowel movements
Why is IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) termed as a functional disorder?
IBS does not refer to any physical damage or disease; it points to how indifferently the digestive system is working. It does not cause any structural damage, and that is the reason you get nothing out of diagnostic tests like blood tests, X-rays, or scans.
IBS is called a functional disorder because it involves problems with how the digestive system works, but without any physical damage to the organs. This means that the structure of your digestive system (like the intestines) looks normal, but the way it functions is not normal.
So, IBS is considered a functional disorder because the symptoms come from how the digestive system is functioning rather than from any structural damage or disease.
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional digestive disorder with several symptoms that may vary from person to person. It is important to note that even the best gastroenterologists diagnose IBS based on symptoms, as this condition refers to a functional disorder.
It is advised to consult the best gastroenterologist in Delhi once you have identified the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome:
- Abdominal Pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Gas
- Mucus in stool
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Incomplete Bowel Evacuation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment Diet
The best treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) usually involves avoiding trigger foods and eating foods that are easier on your digestive system.
Here are some general diet recommendations for managing IBS:
- Low FODMAP Diet – Certain types of carbohydrates trigger symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It is advised to consume a low FODMAP diet and avoid excessive intake of apples, onions, garlic, beans, and wheat.
- Increase Fiber Intake – To avoid constipation in IBS, consume a soluble fiber-rich diet like oats, carrots, bananas, and psyllium husk, as it helps soften stool and aids digestion.
- Limit High-Fat Foods – Fatty foods are harder to digest and can trigger symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Avoid the intake of high-fat foods like fried foods, fatty meats, and high-fat dairy.
- Stay Hydrated – Consume plenty of water to help prevent constipation and improve digestion.
- Limit Caffeine and Alcohol – Reduce the intake of coffee, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages as these can irritate the digestive system, leading to bloating, diarrhea, and discomfort.
These dietary changes can help manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, but it is important to consult the best gastroenterologist in Delhi for personalized guidance and effective treatment.