STORIES OF IMPACT
Happy IBS Awareness Month!
April 06, 2021
Happy IBS Awareness Month!
The prevalence is estimated to be between 10% and 15%. Despite this, many people go undiagnosed and often don’t realize that their symptoms point to a medically recognized condition. Let's celebrate all month by creating awareness of IBS!
What is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you'll need to manage long term.
What are the Symptoms?
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Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is related to passing a bowel movement.
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Changes in appearance of bowel movements.
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Changes in how often you are having bowel movements.
Signs
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Weight loss
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Diarrhea at night
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Rectal bleeding
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Iron deficiency anemia
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Unexplained vomiting
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Difficulty swallowing
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Persistent pain that isn’t relieved by passing gas or a bowel movement.
Causes
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Muscle contractions in the intestine - Contractions that are stronger and last longer than normal can cause gas, bloating and diarrhea.
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Nervous System- Abnormalities in the nerves in your digestive system may cause you to experience greater than normal discomfort when your abdomen stretches from gas or stool.
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Severe Infection- IBS can develop after a severe bout of diarrhea caused by bacteria or a virus.
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Early life stress - People exposed to stressful events, especially in childhood, tend to have more symptoms of IBS.
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Changes in gut microbes- examples include changes in bacteria, fungi and viruses, which normally reside in the intestines and play a key role in health.
