Thursday, November 3, 2011

Identify Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms differ from person-to-person. Some people have mild symptoms that don’t interfere with life. On the other hand, a few sufferers deal with symptoms on a daily basis. Because the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome closely mimic the symptoms of other gastrointestinal disorders, diagnosing this condition is tricky. Once you have an accurate diagnosis, you can take the necessary steps to improve your condition.


Instructions








1. If you feel pain or intermittent cramping in the abdomen, you may have IBS. Abdominal pain and cramping are the two most common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, especially after big meals. Some sufferers also deal with lactose intolerance, in which irritable bowel symptoms intensify after eating dairy products. Initially, it’s best to have new symptoms checked by a doctor. They’ll rule out more serious problems such as Crohn’s disease, stomach cancers or gynecological medical conditions.


2. Do you have a full sensation in the stomach. Caffeine, artificial sweeteners and fatty foods can aggravate irritable bowel symptoms and cause abdominal bloating. Clothes generally feel tight around the waist and sufferers feel an overall sense of fullness. Often times, abdominal bloating causes the stomach to stick out.


3. If you develop a flatulence problem, you may have IBS. The foods that trigger IBS symptoms vary from person-to-person. Immediately after eating, suffers may feel gas pains in the chest, back or stomach. Pain normally subsides after burping, passing a stool or taking anti-gas medications.


4. Hard stools, the inability to pass stools, and diarrhea are common symptoms of IBS. Foods that cause irritable bowel symptoms can result in one or both of these problems. Sufferers should identify trouble foods and eliminate these from their diet.


5. Mucus in the stool is a tell-tale sign of irritable bowel syndrome. This is common with bouts of constipation or hard stools. Drinking plenty of water typically softens stools and allows them to pass with minor discomfort.


6. Notice that stressful events worsen symptoms. If symptoms intensify when you are feeling stressed or anxious, you may have IBS. Stress and mental health play a role in IBS. A few sufferers notice that their gastrointestinal symptoms become worse whenever they feel nervous, tense or overwhelmed. Learn relax, or take an herbal or prescription anti-anxiety medication.

Tags: bowel symptoms, irritable bowel, irritable bowel symptoms, abdominal bloating, after eating