Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS, Spastic Colon)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Category : Health Centers > Digestive System

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Alternate Names : IBS, Spastic Colon

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a condition characterized by abdominal cramping, bloating, gas, and other changes in the bowels.

What is going on in the body?

Normally when a person eats, the stimulation of the food causes the muscles of the colon to contract. This contraction then pushes the stool toward the rectum to the outside of the body. IBS seems to cause the colon to be more sensitive to stimulation.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

It is not clear what causes IBS. Emotional stress and diet, especially one high in calories and fat, seem to be some of the factors that increase the symptoms associated with IBS. Other factors include:

hormonal changes, especially in females during menstruation

conditions affecting the nerves that control digestion

changes in physical activity level

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		Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms & Signs

Author: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Reviewer: Melissa Sanders, PharmD
Date Reviewed: 07/05/01

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