While some medical conditions manifest through visible physical effects, many others go entirely unnoticed at first glance. Among these “invisible illnesses” is irritable bowel syndrome, which results in a variety of gastrointestinal problems that, unbeknownst to the average person, make even the simplest daily tasks difficult.
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a digestive disorder that mainly involves the large intestine, alternatively called the colon. The most common signs and symptoms, which include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and/or constipation, overlap with many other diseases, making a diagnosis difficult. The severity of IBS can range anywhere from mild to severe. Testing for the disorder involves a rigorous series of criteria and a variety of different imaging processes if necessary.
In terms of prevalence, irritable bowel syndrome is extremely common. Statistics suggest that roughly 10% of the American population, or perhaps even more, suffer from IBS. Additionally, for reasons still unknown, twice as many women are affected compared to men. Most patients are younger than 45 years old, and individuals with mental illnesses like anxiety and depression may be at greater risk for developing IBS.
Image Source: Peter Dazeley
Since IBS is a chronic condition with no known cause or cure, its impact on an affected individual’s life extends far beyond symptoms alone. IBS can reduce one’s ability to manage work or school, interfere in personal relationships, and impact dietary, exercise, and sleep habits. As a result, treatment for IBS involves a considerable amount of lifestyle adjustments through trial and error. Patients must often be aware of factors such as trigger foods and locations of the nearest restrooms. A number of medications, such as antidiarrheals and antispasmodics, can help relieve certain symptoms, but more precise treatment is typically determined on a case-by-case basis.
There is certainly much more to disorders like irritable bowel syndrome than what first meets the eye. In addition to the physical pain and other symptoms, such conditions have the power to throw one’s life into complete disarray if left untreated.
Featured Image Source: Nature…Calling by Frédéric Poirot
