No one knows exactly what the causes of IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, are, but many experts believe the condition is related to neurotransmitters inside the brain not communicating properly with the bowels. This lack of communication between the brain and the bowels may cause a person to experience the symptoms of IBS. Another one of the major causes of IBS could be related to genetics. It seems that people who have family members with IBS are usually more likely to have it themselves. There also seem to be certain things that can trigger IBS symptoms in many people.
People with IBS may be more likely to experience symptoms when things like stress and hormones affect them. The causes of IBS might also be related to eating certain foods, although these foods tend to vary from person to person. Anyone who has IBS symptoms just after eating dairy products may not actually have IBS, but rather an intolerance to lactose. This is a very common misdiagnosis because the symptoms of IBS are usually similar to those a person who is lactose intolerant may experience. A simple process of trial and error might be the best way for a person to determine if his or her IBS symptoms are actually related to being lactose intolerant, although it is ultimately up to a doctor to make a definite diagnosis of either problem.
One of the most common symptoms of IBS is severe abdominal pain that is usually relieved by having a bowel movement. Gas and bloating might also be a problem, and a person could have diarrhea, constipation, or both. In addition to intestinal problems, a person with IBS may have other symptoms such as frequent headaches and backaches. Insomnia also seems to affect some people with IBS. A person who has any symptoms that indicate IBS should make an appointment with his or her doctor to find out for sure what is going on.
There may not be a cure for IBS until doctors fully understand the causes of IBS. Fortunately for people who suffer from it, the problem can usually be managed well enough to keep symptoms to a minimum. Doctors often recommend that patients with IBS learn what types of things trigger it and advise them to avoid these triggers whenever possible. In addition to avoiding the triggers, IBS patients might also find relief from taking fiber supplements and antidiarrheal medication. There are also some prescription medications designed specifically for IBS sufferers that help to relax the colon, thereby making the passage of stool much easier and less painful.