Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition wherein the individual suffers from abdominal pain along with a wide variety of associated symptoms. Some of these symptoms include constipation, diarrhea, or alternatively occurring episodes of both these symptoms.
What are the causes of irritable bowel syndrome?
There is no proof as to the exact cause for this syndrome, but there are various factors that lead to it, and these include:
- Intestinal muscle contractions
The intestinal walls are lined with muscle layers which help in the movement of food along the digestive tract. When the contractions end up being stronger and occur for a longer period of time than the normal functioning can end up causing the formation of gas, bloating, or diarrhea. When the whole process of digestion slows down then the resultant stool is hard and dry. - Nervous system
Regular abdomen function such as stretching for releasing gas or stool can prove to be very uncomfortable when the nerves of the digestive system are showing abnormalities. When the brain signals to the digestive system are poorly coordinated or there are any lapses in the signal itself, then the body undergoes pain and shows symptoms such as diarrhea and constipation. - Inflammation in the intestines
Some of those diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome tend to show the presence of an increased number of immune system cells present in the intestines. The resulting immune system response causes pain and diarrhea. - Infections
Irritable bowel syndrome is one condition that can develop as the result of a severe bout of infections such as diarrhea which is caused by bacteria or virus. This syndrome can also be the result of the presence of the surplus intestinal bacteria, which could possibly be an overgrowth. - Bacterial changes in the gut
The intestine carries a certain amount of healthy bacteria in the intestines known as microflora, which is key to the health of all individuals. Research has shown that the microflora in those with irritable bowel syndrome is quite different from the kind found in normal healthy individuals.
What are the risk factors associated with irritable bowel syndrome?
Most people diagnosed with this condition only show some of the signs and symptoms occasionally. However, the following factors increase the risk of you being diagnosed with this syndrome:
- Age
Those who are younger than 50 are more at risk. - Gender
Women as compared to men are prone to this condition, and estrogen therapy either before or after menopause increases the risk factor. - Family history
A combination of or standalone factors such as genes and environment tend to increase the risk of irritable bowel syndrome. - Mental health
Mental health issues such as anxiety or depression are associated with this syndrome. Even the history of any form of abuse increases the risk level of the individual.
It is advisable to get a doctor’s consult and get on a treatment plan that will not affect your life. Irritable bowel syndrome is a pretty manageable disease as long as one is ready to get on a routine for the long run.
