PATHOLOGIES

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

It is one of the most common intestinal disorders and a consequence of several possible factors, including psychological stress, gastrointestinal infections, inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, imbalance of the immune system, hormonal status and intestinal microbiome, which interferes with the transmission of messages. between the brain and the intestine.

Currently, there are many attempts to explain the symptoms of IBS, but the theory of the intestinal axis – brain – immune system – intestinal microflora is well known, and the interaction of these components releases peptides and other neuroendocrine substances that generate events within IBS. In addition, it is well known that IBS can have an onset of post-intestinal infectious episodes. These intestinal infectious episodes lead to the persistence of low-grade inflammation in the colonic mucosa. Another theory of minor functional disorders is that IBS begins with intestinal dysbiosis, but qualitative changes in the gut microbiome can lead to the proliferation of short-chain gas and fatty acid-producing species. It can also affect intestinal motility and peristalsis by affecting the transport of water and electrolytes in the mucosa.

According to the ROMA IV consensus, IBS is characterized by average recurrent pain (on average at least 1 day / week in the last 3 months) associated with two or more of the following symptoms:

– is related to defecation;

– is associated with a frequent change of stool;

– is associated with a change in stool consistency;

– the symptoms have been present for at least 6 months.

Furthermore. The ROMA IV criteria aim to eliminate the disjunction between functional (disease without anatomical or physiological cause) and organic (condition with changes in the structure or function of an organ), of the intestinal microbiome.

This condition is mainly manifested among adolescents or young adults, followers of a disorderly lifestyle and has a frequency twice as high in women as in men.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome vary from case to case, but are often based on either diarrhea or constipation, complemented by bloating, bloating (noises in the intestines during digestion), abdominal discomfort, abnormal defecation that requires effort. , feeling of urgency or incomplete elimination.

Diagnosing

Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome is made only by a doctor, following a set of tests that may include ultrasound or colonoscopy. Only they can establish the presence of IBS, to the detriment of organic diseases of the digestive system – colitis, pancreatitis, absorption disorders.

Therefore, we advise you to visit your doctor for more investigations from the first symptoms. Although IBS is a chronic condition, the discipline and support of specialists increases the chances of keeping symptoms under control. In addition, the prevention and early detection of these functional disorders remain very important, so our advice is to pay attention to the signals transmitted by the body and to protect your intestinal flora, consuming fiber, prebiotics and probiotics.