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What is IBS?

what is ibs

IBS can impact daily activities such as work and socializing, it is not uncommon for individuals like you to experience mood changes as a result. Many people can effectively control their symptoms by adopting naturopathic prescriptions. Such as dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and stress management techniques.

In cases of more severe symptoms, medications, and counseling are required as a part of the treatment plan. It is a common condition affecting millions worldwide, causing significant disruptions in their daily lives.

What is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the stomach and intestines. International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders says that IBS is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine. The symptoms of IBS, include abdominal pain, bloating, and change in your bowel.

It can cause trouble and make it challenging to maintain a consistent routine or focus on work-related tasks. Postinfectious ibs develop due to an infection of the digestive tract.

The need for frequent bathroom visits or sudden urgency can interrupt meetings, presentations, or essential business engagements, leading to embarrassment and potential professional setbacks. It is important to note that only a small portion of individuals experience severe symptoms. While IBS is a chronic condition requiring long-term management,

Alternative Names for IBS

IBS, also known as irritable bowel syndrome, can go by various other names commonly used to refer to the condition. These alternative names include:

  • Irritable bowel
  • Irritable colon
  • Spastic colon
  • Nervous stomach (This term is often associated with IBS due to the correlation between symptoms and emotional stress, tension, and anxiety).

Types of IBS 

IBS can be classified into various types based on the specific bowel movement problems individuals experience. The type of IBS one has can influence the recommended treatment approach, as certain medications may be effective for specific types of IBS.

Individuals with IBS often alternate between normal bowel movements and abnormal ones. The classification of IBS types is based on the nature of these abnormal bowel movements:

  • IBS with constipation (IBS-C): It is characterized by experiencing mostly hard and lumpy stools during bowel movements.
  • IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D): If individuals predominantly have loose and watery stools during bowel movements.
  • IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M): It involves experiencing both hard and lumpy stools as well as loose and watery stools on the same day.

How long does IBS last?

The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) tend to appear intermittently, with durations that can range from days to weeks or even months. Typically, IBS is a chronic condition that persists throughout a person’s life if not treated properly. Irritable bowel syndrome is not the foundation for gastrointestinal disorders but it is a specific type of gastrointestinal disorder. Urgent care is required to get rid of it.

Is IBS curable?

Managing IBS symptoms for improved gut health. Typically, if symptoms of Crohn’s, Colitis, ulcers, acid reflux, or bowel cancer are ruled out, an ibs diagnosis and test is made. Gastroenterologists often collaborate and acknowledge that their expertise lies in addressing structural health issues.

However, recent research suggests that IBS is a functional health concern that can be effectively treated using a naturopathic are best to give medications for IBS medicine approach, which focuses on addressing the root causes.

is ibs a disability

Symptoms of IBS

  • Gas
  • Swelling and bloating of your stomach
  • Pain & cramping
  • Constipation/diarrhea or both
  • Changes in stool appearance
  • Reflux/ GERD
  • Burping
  • Weight changes
  • Fatigue or lack of energy (lethargy)
  • Sensations of nausea or feeling sick
  • Occasional episodes of heartburn

Note: IBS and lactose intolerance may have similar symptoms, but both are two different conditions

Right Time to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience persistent changes in bowel habits or other symptoms of IBS, it is important to consult your healthcare provider. These symptoms may indicate the presence of a more serious condition, such as colon cancer. It is especially crucial to seek medical attention if you encounter the following more severe symptoms:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Nocturnal diarrhea
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Unexplained vomiting
  • Persistent pain that is not relieved by passing gas or having a bowel movement

Tip: If you are experiencing rectal bleeding, notice a swelling or lump in your abdomen or rectal area, have persistent changes in bowel habits lasting over six weeks, or have a family history of bowel cancer or ovarian cancer, it is essential to consult a doctor urgently

IBS can Affect Other Areas of the Body

The occurrence of back pain in individuals with IBS is widespread, although the precise frequency remains uncertain. Research suggests that it impacts anywhere from 28% to 81% of people diagnosed with the condition.

Certain specialists speculate that this back pain could be attributed to referred pain, wherein the discomfort originates from a different location within the body but is perceived in the back.

At Make Care Health, we prioritize addressing digestive disorders as they often play a significant role in various chronic illnesses. This approach allows us to effectively treat other bodily symptoms by utilizing food and supplements in a more targeted manner.

By focusing on optimizing digestion, our naturopathic doctors enhance nutrient absorption, strengthen the immune system, promote relaxation of the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and improve the body’s detoxification processes. 

Naturopathic treatments cater specifically to executive or corporate individuals who hold managerial or leadership positions, entrepreneurs, and professionals burdened with substantial responsibilities, decision-making, and high-pressure situations.

Join our community of health enthusiasts! To access our online supplement store in Canada, sign in to create your account. Start your journey to a healthier you today!

Risk factors for IBS

  • Hypoglycaemia (low & fluctuating blood sugars)
  • Social isolation/anxiety/depression
  • Food poisoning & traveler’s diarrhea
  • Nutrient deficiencies (vitamins A& D B12, iron)
  • Headaches, joint & body pain
  • Inflammation and autoimmune conditions
  • Skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema

Unveiling the Contributors to IBS Development

  • The presence of IBS among multiple family members suggests a potential genetic predisposition to the condition, increasing the risk for individuals within the same family.
  • Individuals who experience these emotional factors (Emotional stress, tension, and anxiety) may be at a higher risk of developing IBS.
  • Individuals with IBS may have specific food intolerances or sensitivities that can trigger symptoms.
  • A history of physical or sexual abuse is associated with an increased risk of developing IBS.
  • Severe infections affecting the digestive tract, these infections can disrupt the normal functioning of the gut, leading to the onset of IBS symptoms.  

Stress and IBS

The chronic nature of IBS can contribute to fatigue, decreased productivity, and increased stress levels, which can further affect the overall well-being and success of busy individuals.

Managing IBS in a professional setting often requires careful planning, lifestyle adjustments, stress management techniques, and open communication with colleagues and superiors to ensure a supportive work environment.

Accessing further support

At Make Care Health, Dr. Kaylee provides personalized treatment options to individuals in high-demand roles facing functional disorders. Ibs diet, relaxation techniques, herbal remedies, stress management techniques, and mind-body therapies.

This integrative approach aims to support overall health and optimize the body’s natural healing abilities, enabling busy professionals to thrive in their professional pursuits while prioritizing their holistic well-being.

How to treat Constipation and Diarrhea

In the case of constipation-predominant IBS,  the muscles in the colon may contract more slowly, causing a delay in the passage of stool. This can result in infrequent bowel movements, hard and lumpy stools, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

Diarrhea-predominant IBS is characterized by increased motility of the intestines, leading to rapid movement of stool through the colon. This can result in loose, watery stools and a frequent urge to have a bowel movement.

By addressing the root causes and promoting optimal digestive health, DR Kaylee is the best naturopathic doctor who is a holistic health practitioner to alleviate constipation and diarrhea symptoms and restore balance to the digestive system.

Constipation followed by diarrhea

When severe constipation occurs, it can lead to a blockage in the bowel. Consequently, the bowel may start to release watery stools around the obstruction, originating from a higher location within the bowel. This leakage from the bowel can resemble diarrhea and is referred to as “overflow diarrhea.”

Food to avoid  in IBS condition 

These include high-fat foods, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages, processed snacks, fried foods, and foods high in lactose or artificial sweeteners.

Note: The role of Sweet Relief Pastries including those labeled as “Sweet Relief,” often contain ingredients such as high levels of refined sugar, unhealthy fats, gluten, and artificial additives, which can pose challenges and exacerbate IBS symptoms

Does green tea make you poo?

The effect of green tea on bowel movements can vary among individuals. While some people may experience a mild laxative effect from the caffeine content in green tea, others may not notice any significant changes in their bowel habits. It is advisable to listen to your body and observe how green tea affects your digestive system individually. 

Is corn IBS-friendly?

Healthcare providers say corn can be problematic for some individuals with IBS. It contains insoluble fiber that can be difficult to digest and may trigger symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort.

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