Introduction to Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS )
IBS (also known as irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bowel, irritable colon, spastic colon, mucous colitis, mucous bowel, mucous colon, nervous colon, nervous diarrhea, nervous bowel, functional bowel, spastic bowel, spastic colitis and spastic colon) is a functional bowel disorder affecting more than 20% of Americans. Twice as many women as men suffer irritable bowel syndrome. IBS is diagnosed in up to 60% of patients seeing a gastroenterologist. The disorder ordinarily affects people between the ages of 20 and 40 years, although people over 40 often suffer this affliction.
IBS is a disorder of the intestines not to be confused with diseases like Crohn's colitis, diverticulitis or ulcerative colitis. IBS is not life-threatening and is not contagious. Abscesses, abnormalities, cancers, ruptures, ulcers, viruses or yeasts do not cause IBS.
Abnormal peristalsis is the immediate cause of IBS symptoms. Peristalsis is the sequential tightening and relaxation of intestine segments moving the contents of the bowel. In IBS, peristalsis is either too much or too little, causing noises and rumblings as gas passes through the intestines. At times, particularly of stress, pain can be experienced anywhere in the abdomen, though most often in the lower left part.
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS )
Medical science has not identified a single cause of irritable bowel syndrome. The consensus is that combinations of many factors contribute to IBS.
Any combination of the following factors can contribute to IBS symptoms:
- Disruption of the digestive system
- Stress
- Spasms in the muscles of the intestinal wall
- Poor diet
- Unhealthy life-style
Some or any combination of the above six contributing factors can cause IBS symptoms. Consequently, to be sure of lasting relief or cure, one needs to address all six contributing factors.
Signs and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS )
The early onset of IBS can resemble indigestion or a stomach upset. As the condition progresses, the number and severity of the symptoms increase.
The symptoms of IBS can include:
- Spasms of the colon
- Recurrent abdominal pain or cramps
- Gassy bloated feeling in the abdomen
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Diarrhea alternating with constipation
- Frequent bowel movements
- Depression, panic and anxiety attacks
- Headaches and insomnia
- Ribbon or pellet like stools (feces)
- Occasional mucus with stools
IBS rarely causes rectal bleeding. If rectal bleeding does occur, contact your doctor immediately.
Clearly IBS symptoms resemble the symptoms of many intestinal disorders and diseases. Consequently, a number of medical tests are needed to distinguish IBS from other conditions.
IBS Risk Factors
The risk of developing IBS increases six-fold after acute gastrointestinal infection.
Further risk factors are young age, prolonged fever, anxiety and depression.
When to See a Doctor
See your doctor if you suffer any combination of the following:
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain
- Abdominal pain lasting more than four days
- Rectal bleeding or weight loss
- Recurring abdominal pain and diarrhea
Screening and Diagnosis
Your physician may use some combination of the following tests to ascertain whether you have IBS or another abdominal complaint with similar symptoms:
- CT scan
- Gastroscopy
- Ultrasound scan
- Blood tests
- Thyroid test
- Colonoscopy
- Barium enema x-ray
- Lactose intolerance test
- Hydrogen breath test
- Stool acidity test
Antispasmodic drugs
Some doctors prescribed antispasmodics include propantheline bromide (Pro-Banthine™), dicyclomine (Merbentyl™), hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan™) and atropine.
Possible Side Effects include: blurred vision, constipation, difficulty urinating, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia and nervousness.
Consult your doctor regarding any risks involved before taking antispasmodic drugs.
IBS is just one of many uncomfortable conditions that can be prevented with a balanced, high fiber diet, moderate exercise, and a stress-free life style without stimulants.
To be sure of lasting relief from IBS, one needs to treat all six of the contributing factors to the disease:
- Disruption of the digestive system
- Stress
- Spasms in the muscles of the intestinal wall
- Poor diet
- Unhealthy life-style
While a complete cure cannot be guaranteed, a comprehensive approach ensures that you are doing everything you possibly can to rid the condition.
Listed below are herbal remedies considered to be beneficial to IBS sufferers. Although popular herbal remedies are relatively safe for most people, individuals should take sensible precautions with regard to allergies and to possible interactions with medications being taken. Consult your doctor, particularly if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Use reputable brands only.
Important: Tell your doctor if you are taking or intend to take any herbal products1 and follow your doctor’s recommendations2. Read the instructions on the package and be advised by your doctor regarding dosage.
Consult your doctor concerning :
- Allergies
- Possible interactions with medications
- Pregnancy and breast feeding
- Pharmaceutical alternatives
"The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects."
1. Disruption of the digestive system
The risk of developing IBS increases six-fold after acute gastrointestinal infection.Treatment - Artichoke Leaf Extract
Published research3 reports 90 percent of IBS patients in survey reporting they get at least as much relief from artichoke leaf abstract as from prescribed pharmaceuticals.
- Goldenseal (orange root, ground raspberry, ox-eye daisy, yellow puccoon, golden daisy)
Goldenseal4 decreases diarrhea, helps digestion, boosts the immune system and treats and prevents mucous membrane irritations and inflammation of the digestive, urinary and respiratory tracts.
2.Stress
IBS often begins during a period of stress, and symptoms worsen in increasingly stressful situations for example at work or in relationships.
Treatment – Anti-stress herbs
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
This herbal tea is particularly beneficial to IBS sufferers, because it helps digestion, relieves stress, decreases intestinal muscle spasms and reduces flatulence.
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
St. John’s Wort soothes anxiety, lifts depression, increases energy levels, improves appetite and has antiviral properties.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
This invigorating herb improves stamina and possesses anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.
3. Spasms in the muscles of the intestinal wall
Treatment –Antispasmodic herbs
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint Oil5 in enteric coated capsule form is an antispasmodic relief for stomach or intestinal cramps and spasms.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
This digestive herb has an enduring reputation for reducing flatulence and easing bloating and digestive spasms.
Magnesium
A significant cause of muscle spasms is magnesium deficiency. Excellent sources of magnesium include spinach and Swiss chard. Very good sources of magnesium include broccoli, halibut, molasses, mustard greens, peppermint, pumpkin and summer squash. You can also take magnesium in tablet form as a food supplement, with doctor's advice and according to directions on the label..
Download Minerals Chart Found Here
4. Build-up of toxins in the intestines
Treatment –Psyllium
Psyllium (plantago ovata) Psyllium, extracted from the husks of blond psyllium seeds, is a natural water-soluble fiber. Psyllium is a member of a class of soluble fibers known as mucilages. Psyllium retains water, becoming thick and jelly-like.
Psyllium stabilizes bowel movements and reduces constipation, diarrhea and alternating constipation and diarrhea. Psyllium also helps to restore the normal peristaltic (contracting) action of the bowel by gradually soothing and toning the bowel. Psyllium encourages the growth of friendly intestinal bacteria such as acidophilus, bifidobacteria and lactobacillus which are helpful in regulating bowel movements and “crowding out” harmful bacteria.
Psyllium expands rapidly when in contact with liquid or moisture, which can make swallowing difficult if the psyllium is not consumed immediately and with sufficient liquid. (Psyllium expands less rapidly in juice than in water.) Follow the instructions on the container. Psyllium in capsule form is more convenient, because of the resulting delay in expansion. Swallow the capsules with sufficient fluid as per instructions on the container.
5. Poor diet
Treatment –Probiotics
IBS sufferers have low numbers of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria (the ‘friendly bacteria’ beneficial to good health) in the colon. Probiotic yogurt or probiotic supplements in your diet help to restore the friendly bacteria.
A low fiber diet contributes to the incidence of IBS. Fast foods contain insufficient fiber, for example.
Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber helps to reduce constipation, cholesterol16, prevent diverticular disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Pectins,
- Guar gum and mucilage (found mostly in plant cells).
Sources of soluble fiber include:
- Citrus fruits,
- Vegetables,
- Oatmeal,
- Oat bran,
- Barley,
- Seed husks,
- Flaxseed,
- Psyllium,
- Beans,
- Lentils,
- Peas,
- Soymilk and soy products.
Insoluble Fiber (Roughage)
Insoluble fiber adds bulk to feces and helps to prevent constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticular disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Insoluble fiber includes: cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin (found mostly in plant cell walls).Sources of insoluble fiber include:
- Bran layer of whole wheat,
- Bran,
- Corn bran,
- Rice bran,
- Skins of fruits and vegetables,
- Nuts,
- Seeds,
- Psyllium,
- Dried beans and
- Wholegrain foods.
Important: For a high-fiber diet to work, you must drink sufficient liquids (around six to eight glasses of water per day for adults). If increased fiber in your daily diet causes bloating or flatulence (gas), stage increases gradually over a period of weeks. Some people have a low tolerance for fiber, causing intestinal irritability and pain. Your doctor might need to test for fiber intolerance.
Some points to remember when adding fiber to your diet include:
- Increase fiber slowly to prevent digestive problems such as bloating or gas.
- Drink plenty of water (About 8 glasses a day for adults).
6. Life-style
Treatment –Stop drinking and smoking, and exercise more
Alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs contribute significantly to IBS.
Nutrition, moderate exercise and mutually supportive personal relationships are nature's font of well-being.
In the pursuit of wealth and excess, we often forget that we are at our most content when all things are done in moderation. Painful abdominal cramps are nature’s way of persuading us to adopt a more balanced lifestyle.
Achieving a Full Recovery
Reinforcing the health-giving action of the first five treatments, a healthy, balanced life-style enables a full recovery.
1. Herbal Remedies [RETURN]
Murray M. T. (1995) The Healing Power of Herbs. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing. 162-72.
2. Herbal Medicines and Health Care [RETURN]
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3. Artichokes and Improved Digestion [RETURN]
Emendorfer, F. (2005) et al. Antispasmodic activity of fractions and cynaropicrin from Cynara scolymus on guinea-pig ileum. Biol. Pharm. Bull. 28(5): 902-4.Emendorfer, F. (2005) et al. Evaluation of the relaxant action of some Brazilian medicinal plants in isolated guinea-pig ileum and rat duodenum. J. Pharm. Pharm. Sci. 8(1): 63-8.
Wittemer, S. M. (2005) et al. Bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of caffeoylquinic acids and flavonoids after oral administration of Artichoke leaf extracts in humans. Phytomedicine. 12(1-2): 28-38.
Bundy, R., et al. (2004) Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and improves quality of life in otherwise healthy volunteers suffering from concomitant dyspepsia: a subset analysis. J. Altern. Complement. Med. 10(4): 667-9.
Holtmann, G., et al. (2003) Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in the treatment of patients with functional dyspepsia: a six-week placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicentre trial. Aliment. Pharmacol. Ther. 18(11-12): 1099-105.
Walker, A. F., et al. (2001) Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a post-marketing surveillance study. Phytother. Res. 15(1): 58-61.
Wegener, T., et al. (1999) Pharmacological properties and therapeutic profile of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) Wien. Med. Wochenschr. 149(8-10): 241-7.
Artichoke Leaf Extracts Have Antimicrobial Properties
Yang, B., et al. (2005) Metabolic profile of 1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid in rats, an in vivo and in vitro study. Drug Metab. Dispos. 33(7): 930-6.Zhu, X. F., et al. (2005) Antifungal activity of Cynara scolymus L. extracts. Fitoterapia. 76(1): 108-11.
Zhu, X., et al. (2004) Phenolic compounds from the leaf extract of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and their antimicrobial activities. J. Agric. Food Chem. 52(24): 7272-8.
4. Goldenseal [RETURN]
Bannerman J. E. (1997) Goldenseal in world trade: Pressures and potentials. Herbal Gram 41:51-25. Peppermint Oil [RETURN]
Pittler M.H., Ernst E. (1998) Peppermint Oil For Irritable Bowel Syndrome: a Critical Review and Metaanalysis. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 93 (7), 1131-1135.6. High Fiber Diet[RETURN]
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Pagana K.D., Pagana T.J. (2006). Mosby’s Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, St. Louis: Mosby. 3rd ed.
Chernecky C.C., Berger B.J., (2004). Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures, Philadelphia: Saunders. (eds.) 4th ed.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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What I need to know about Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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Abdomen: The space between the chest and pelvis containing the stomach, appendix, colon, rectum, kidneys, bladder gallbladder, spleen, liver and pancreas. [RETURN]
Bowel: The bowel consists of the large and the small intestines. It is the tube involved in digestion, extending from the stomach to the anus. [RETURN]
Colon: The part of the large intestine extending from the cecum to the rectum. [RETURN]
Constipation: Infrequent and often incomplete bowel movements characterized by dry or hard fecal matter. [RETURN]
Diarrhea: The opposite of constipation. Unusually frequent or liquid bowel movements. [RETURN]
Feces: The excrement discharged from the intestines through the anus. [RETURN]
Gastroenterologist: A doctor specializing in disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. [RETURN]
Gastrointestinal tract: The tube extending from the mouth to the anus, including the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, pancreas, liver, gallbladder and biliary system.
Insomnia: Difficulty in going to sleep and/or staying asleep. Un-refreshing sleep. [RETURN]
Intestine: The tube consisting of the small and large intestines extending from the stomach to the anus. [RETURN]
Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS ): Abnormal contractions in the gastrointestinal tract. [RETURN]
Mucus: A thick, slippery fluid produced in the lining of organs such as the intestines. [RETURN]
Peristalsis: Rhythmic muscular contractions mixing food and gastric juices and moving them through the gastrointestinal tract. [RETURN]
Rectum: The final portion of the large intestine, storing feces until discharge through the anus. [RETURN]
Spasm: Automatic, sharp muscular contraction that can be quite painful. [RETURN]
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