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A bowel disorder, more common in the age group of 20-45 years.

Causes

Psychological factors e.g. stress anxiety play a major role.
Specific food intolerance, like lactose or wheat.
Abuse of laxatives.
Post gastroenteritis.

Symptoms

IBS restricts the contraction and relaxation of the rings of muscle in wall of the gut. When the sequence of muscle action is weak, the following symptoms are seen:-
Abdominal pains which spasmodic with explosive watery, diarrhoea.
Frequent urge to defecate, worse morning and after breakfast.
Incomplete defecation with mucus in stools BUT never blood.
Feeling of bloatedness.
Inability to finish a meal resulting in slight weight loss, Sometimes backache, urinary frequently and urgency in males.

Do's and Dont's

Elimination diet-Since the problem is often associated with unbalanced diet or food intolerance, a whole food diet, which is balanced is recommended.
Eat regularly at fixed times.
Avoid laxatives and rely on dietary fibre for restoring regularity.
Avoid coffee, tea, alcohol and strong spices-all potential irritants.
Gentle abdominal massage may be helpful.
Do not self medicate, especially with antidiarrhoels and antispasmodics.
Practice relaxation techniques like Yoga, breathing exercises.