Dubai: Do you often come down with stomach cramps or a feeling of fullness and bloating?
The chances are that you might be suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This condition affects about 20 per cent of the UAE population, according to Dr Atul Chawla, Specialist Gastroenterologist at Burjeel hospital. “A poor lifestyle and high stress are two of the major reasons contributing to IBS,” he said, adding that some people are also likely to experience constipation or diarrhoea.
Explaining the condition, Dr Mohammad Khair Ojjeh, specialist Gastroenterologist at Lifeline Hospital, Jebel Ali said: “IBS is a common disorder that affects the large intestine [colon] causing abdominal pain, cramping and changes in the bowel movement. The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but most experts think that it’s related to increased sensitivity of the gut and problems digesting food.”
Elaborating on the symptoms, Dr Chawla said: “The major symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, fullness, gas, and bloating that have been present for some time periods. The pain and other symptoms will often get mild after a bowel movement or be triggered when there is a change in how often you have bowel movements. An IBS patient can alternate between constipation and diarrhoea.”
The problem could be exacerbated by psychological factors such as workplace stress. “These problems may mean that you are more sensitive to pain coming from your gut, and you may feel cramps and discomfort because your food passes through your gut either too slowly or too quickly and psychological factors may have role in it,” said Dr Ojjeh.
He added: “Patients need to always remember that IBS is a syndrome, not an illness. It’s caused by stress and anxiety and made worse by stress and anxiety. Only by curing your anxiety can you expect to manage it.”
While IBS does not increase your risk of cancer or other bowel–related conditions, it is a disorder that can cause severe distress because it interferes with your work efficiency and affects your output. It is therefore important to recognise and treat it. “Regular trips to the bathroom may be embarrassing, and the physical effects of IBS — including abdominal pain and gas/bloating — can actually have an effect on anxiety as well, especially those with health anxiety/panic attacks,” said Dr Ojjeh.
IBS sufferers have to manage their condition by minimising the symptoms. Undergoing treatment for your anxiety, making lifestyle changes can help you lead a normal life with little or no symptoms.
