IBS is a functional disorder of intestine means there is no structural changes in the body such as colon damage. Thus, it is not possible to diagnose by any diagnostic tests.
Most people with IBS-diarrhea have 10 to 15 bowel movements per day along with painful cramps, gas, bloating, and social discomfort. Even though 20% of the population suffer from this condition there is no definite diagnosis and treatment exist.
What is IBS & How do you explain IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional digestive disorder of the intestine (specifically small intestine) characterized by the abdominal pain or discomfort (such as twist, spasm, grip, colon swelling) followed with altered bowel movements (constipation & diarrhea) without any obvious structural deviations (such as any bleed, ulcer, or tumor) as seen in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. That is tests such as X-rays, blood tests, endoscopies and other diagnostic test does not show any abnormalities.
Are you have had food poisoning or stomach flu? Think of it how you could running to the bathroom. Alternatively, think of worst constipation you have ever experienced. IBS is comparable to hundred times that of food poisoning, stomach flu, or constipation. Think, how miserable is IBS?
IBS has known by many names such as spastic colon, spastic bowel, and functional bowel disease.
IBS is a functional intestinal disorder
Unfortunately, IBS is a functional disorder; there is no testing procedure to diagnose it properly. Rather, it is determine by diagnosis of exclusion. Because IBS does not have any structural, inflammatory, biochemical, or infectious abnormality.
At present IBS is a condition identified by the symptoms, there is no test available for diagnosis. These symptoms can vary in frequency and intensity from person to person and within an individual person from day-to-day. People with IBS may say, “I can go to the loo up to 40 times in one day, the next day I may not go at all.”
According to Ayurveda, Grahani (IBS) means retaining ability of the small intestine more specifically duodenum. This manifest as constipation (too much of retaining) or diarrhea (very low retaining).
IBS types or classifications
1. IBS patient predominately having diarrhea or loose stools called as IBS-D, D for diarrhea.
2. IBS patient predominately having constipation or hard large stools called as IBS-C, C for constipation.
3. IBS patient having alternatively diarrhea and constipation called as IBS-A, A for alternatively.
What will/should be your first IBS prescription?
Your doctor may ask you to increase the fiber intake. This may made you feel worse instead of relieving from symptoms. Alternatively, your doctor may prescribe certain medication that only provide temporary relief.
A good doctor should spend some time to guide you through diet, exercise, stress management, habits, and tackling emotional impact of IBS.