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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is
a disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort, and
altered bowel habit (chronic or recurrent diarrhea, constipation,
or both in alternation).
* Approximately 60 to 65% of IBS
sufferers are female; 35 to 40% are male. IBS affects people
of all ages, even children.
* The exact cause of IBS is not
known. Symptoms appear to result from a disturbance in the interaction
between the gut, brain, and nervous system that alters regulation
of bowel motor or sensory function. IBS is not caused by stress.
However, because of the connection between the brain and the
gut, symptoms can be exacerbated or triggered by stress.
* The impact of IBS can range from
mild inconvenience to severe debilitation, controlling many aspects
of one's emotional, social and professional life. Those with
moderate to severe cases, affecting an estimated 10 to 15 million
people, must struggle to overcome symptoms that often impair
their physical, emotional, economic, educational and social well-being.
* IBS is unpredictable. Symptoms
vary and are sometimes contradictory, such as diarrhea alternating
with constipation. Chronic and recurrent symptoms can disrupt
personal and professional activities, upset emotional well-being
and limit individual potential.
* Treatments are available for IBS
to help manage symptoms.
* Although IBS is very common in
the general population, few seek medical care for their symptoms.
On average, patients report it takes more than three years from
onset to diagnosis, and see nearly three healthcare professionals
before their condition is diagnosed as IBS.
* Approximately 20 to 40% of all
visits to gastroenterologists are due to IBS symptoms.
* For those with IBS an additional
burden comes from living in a society where the word "bowel"
may scarcely be spoken. Individuals are left to cope with multiple
symptoms that affect every aspect of their lives while those
around them may be unaware of the true impact, or even the existence,
of the disorder.
* IBS can only be diagnosed by a
medical professional.
Facts provided by courtesy of International
Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, Inc.
Most importantly, remember, treatment
options are available to manage IBS and live a good quality of
life-whether symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe. The most
common treatments for IBS include
dietary changes, stress relief, and medication. Many people look
to alternative medicine for solutions as well.
For more information and treatment
options visit http://www.OurFamilysHealth.com/Digestive-FAQ
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