It’s one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders, yet people are embarrassed to talk about it. The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) impact one in five Americans. After a sore back and the common cold, it’s the most common reason people call out sick and miss work.
Dr. John Birk, chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the UConn Health Center, says the exact cause of IBS is not known but health experts believe it may be due to faulty communication between the brain and the intestinal tract. Dietary changes, exercise, stress management and medications can help with IBS symptoms.
Symptoms:
- Cramping
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
Potential Triggers of IBS Symptoms:
- Eating (though no particular foods have been associated with IBS).
- Stress may affect the movements of the intestines and also may affect the way a person feels pain.
- Trapped gas that causes bloating.
- Hormonal changes, such as during the menstrual cycle.
- Some medicines, such as antibiotics.
- Genetics. IBS may be more likely to occur in people who have a family history of the disorder.
If you would like to learn more about IBS, there is a free Discovery Series lecture on the topic on Thursday, March 1, 7 to 9 p.m. in the Health Center’s Keller Auditorium. To register, call 800-535-6232 or email discoveryseries@uchc.edu.
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