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Irritable Bowel Syndrome SymptomsBy the National Institute of Health Use your browser's back button to navigate the irritable bowel syndrome menu. What
causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Irritable bowel syndrome (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a disorder that interferes with the normal functions of the large intestine (colon). It is characterized by a group of symptoms--crampy abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. One in five Americans has Irritable Bowel Syndrome, making it one of the most common disorders diagnosed by doctors. It occurs more often in women than in men, and it usually begins around age 20. Irritable Bowel Syndrome causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it does not permanently harm the intestines and does not lead to intestinal bleeding or to any serious disease such as cancer. Most people can control their symptoms with diet, stress management, and medications prescribed by their physician. But for some people, Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be disabling. They may be unable to work, go to social events, or travel even short distances. [Top]What causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?What causes one person to have Irritable Bowel Syndrome and not another? No one knows. Symptoms cannot be traced to a single organic cause. Research suggests that people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome seem to have a colon that is more sensitive and reactive than usual to a variety of things, including certain foods and stress. Some evidence indicates that the immune system, which fights infection, is also involved. Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms result from the following:The normal motility of the colon may not work properly. It can be spasmodic or can even stop temporarily. Spasms are sudden strong muscle contractions that come and go. The lining of the colon (epithelium), which is affected by the immune and nervous systems, regulates the passage of fluids in and out of the colon. In Irritable Bowel Syndrome, the epithelium appears to work properly. However, fast movement of the colon's contents can overcome the absorptive capacity of the colon. The result is too much fluid in the stool. In other patients, colonic movement is too slow, too much fluid is absorbed, and constipation develops. The colon responds strongly to stimuli (for example, foods or stress) that would not bother most people. In people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, stress and emotions can strongly affect the colon. It has many nerves that connect it to the brain. Like the heart and the lungs, the colon is partly controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which has been proven to respond to stress. For example, when you are frightened, your heart beats faster, your blood pressure may go up, or you may gasp. The colon responds to stress also. It may contract too much or too little. It may absorb too much water or too little. Research has shown that very mild or hidden (occult) celiac disease is present in a smaller group of people with symptoms that mimic Irritable Bowel Syndrome. People with celiac disease cannot digest gluten, which is present in wheat, rye, barley, and possibly oats. Foods containing gluten are toxic to these people, and their immune system responds by damaging the small intestine. A blood test can determine whether celiac disease is present. (For information about celiac disease, see the Celiac Disease fact sheet from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).) The following have been associated with a worsening of Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms: Large meals Medicines Wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, milk products, or alcohol Drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or colas Stress, conflict, or emotional upsets Researchers have also found that women with Irritable Bowel Syndrome may have more symptoms during their menstrual periods, suggesting that reproductive hormones can exacerbate Irritable Bowel Syndrome problems. What does the colon do?The colon, which is about 5 feet long, connects the small intestine with the rectum and anus. The major function of the colon is to absorb water, nutrients, and salts from the partially digested food that enters from the small intestine. Two pints of liquid matter enter the colon from the small intestine each day. Stool volume is a third of a pint. The difference in volume represents what the colon absorbs each day. Colon motility (the contraction of the colon muscles and the movement of its contents) is controlled by nerves and hormones and by electrical activity in the colon muscle. Contractions move the contents slowly back and forth but mainly toward the rectum. During this passage, water and nutrients are absorbed into the body. What remains is stool. A few times each day, strong muscle contractions move down the colon, pushing the stool ahead of them. Some of these strong contractions result in a bowel movement. The muscles of the pelvis and anal sphincters have to relax at the right time to allow the stool to be expelled. If the muscles of the colon, sphincters, and pelvis do not contract in a coordinated way, the contents do not move smoothly, resulting in abdominal pain, cramps, constipation or diarrhea, and a sense of incomplete stool movement. [Top]Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms - What are they?Abdominal pain or discomfort in association with bowel dysfunction is the main symptom. Symptoms may vary from person to person. Some people have constipation (hard, difficult-to-pass, or infrequent bowel movements); others have diarrhea (frequent loose stools, often with an urgent need to move the bowels); and still others experience alternating constipation and diarrhea. Some people experience bloating, which is gas building up in the intestines and causing the feeling of pressure inside the abdomen. Irritable bowel syndrome affects the motility or movement of stool and gas through the colon and how fluids are absorbed. When stool remains in the colon for a long time, too much water is absorbed from it. Then it becomes hard and difficult to pass. Or spasms push the stool through the colon too fast for the fluid to be absorbed, resulting in diarrhea. In addition, with spasms, gas may get trapped in one area or stool may collect in one place, temporarily unable to move forward. Sometimes people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome have a crampy urge to move their bowels but cannot do so or pass mucus with their bowel movements. Bleeding, fever, weight loss, and persistent severe pain are not symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and may indicate other problems such as inflammation or rarely cancer. [Top]How is Irritable Bowel Syndrome diagnosed?If you think you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, seeing your doctor is the first step. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is generally diagnosed on the basis of a complete medical history that includes a careful description of symptoms and a physical examination. No particular test is specific for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. However, diagnostic tests may be performed to rule out other diseases. These tests may include stool or blood tests, x rays, or endoscopy (viewing the colon through a flexible tube inserted through the anus). If these tests are all negative, the doctor may diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome based on your symptoms: that is, how often you have had abdominal pain or discomfort during the past year, when the pain starts and stops in relation to bowel function, and how your bowel frequency and stool consistency are altered. Criteria for DiagnosisAbdominal pain or discomfort for at least 12 weeks out of the previous 12 months. These 12 weeks do not have to be consecutive. The abdominal pain or discomfort has two of the following three features: It is relieved by having a bowel movement. When it starts, there is a change in how often you have a bowel movement. When it starts, there is a change in the form of the stool or the way it looks. [Top]What is the treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome?No cure has been found for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, but many options are available to treat the symptoms. Your doctor will give you the best treatments available for your particular symptoms and encourage you to manage stress and make changes to your diet. Medications are an important part of relieving symptoms. Your doctor may suggest fiber supplements or occasional laxatives for constipation, as well as medicines to decrease diarrhea, tranquilizers to calm you, or drugs that control colon muscle spasms to reduce abdominal pain. Antidepressants may also relieve some symptoms. Medications available to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome specifically are the following: Alosetron hydrochloride
(Lotronex) has been re-approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) for women with severe Irritable Bowel Syndrome who have not responded
to conventional therapy and whose primary symptom is diarrhea. However,
even in these patients, it should be used with caution because it can have
serious side effects, such as severe constipation or decreased blood flow
to the colon. With any medication, even over-the-counter medications such as laxatives and fiber supplements, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions. Laxatives can be habit forming if they are not used carefully or are used too frequently. It is also important to note that medications affect people differently and that no one medication or combination of medications will work for everyone with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. You need to work with your doctor to find the best combination of medicine, diet, counseling, and support to control your symptoms. [Top]How does stress affect Irritable Bowel Syndrome?Stress--feeling mentally or emotionally tense, troubled, angry, or overwhelmed--stimulates colon spasms in people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The colon has a vast supply of nerves that connect it to the brain. These nerves control the normal rhythmic contractions of the colon and cause abdominal discomfort at stressful times. People often experience cramps or "butterflies" when they are nervous or upset. But with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, the colon can be overly responsive to even slight conflict or stress. Stress also makes the mind more tuned to the sensations that arise in the colon and makes the stressed person perceive these sensations as unpleasant. Some evidence suggests
that Irritable Bowel Syndrome is affected by the immune system, which
fights infection in the body. The immune system is also affected by stress.
For all these reasons, stress management is an important part of treatment
for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Stress management comprises stress reduction
(relaxation) training and relaxation therapies, such as meditation
counseling and support regular exercise such as walking or yoga [Top] Can changes in diet help Irritable Bowel Syndrome?For many people, careful eating reduces Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. Before changing your diet, keep a journal noting the foods that seem to cause distress. Then discuss your findings with your doctor. You may also want to consult a registered dietitian, who can help you make changes to your diet. For instance, if dairy products cause your symptoms to flare up, you can try eating less of those foods. You might be able to tolerate yogurt better than other dairy products because it contains bacteria that supply the enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk products. Dairy products are an important source of calcium and other nutrients. If you need to avoid dairy products, be sure to get adequate nutrients in the foods you substitute or take supplements. In many cases, dietary fiber may lessen Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms, particularly constipation. However, it may not help pain or diarrhea. Whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables are good sources of fiber. High-fiber diets keep the colon mildly distended, which may help prevent spasms. Some forms of fiber also keep water in the stool, thereby preventing hard stools that are difficult to pass. Doctors usually recommend a diet with enough fiber to produce soft, painless bowel movements. High-fiber diets may cause gas and bloating, but these symptoms often go away within a few weeks as your body adjusts. (For information about diets for people with celiac disease, please see the Celiac Disease fact sheet from NIDDK.) Drinking six to eight glasses of plain water a day is important, especially if you have diarrhea. But drinking carbonated beverages, such as sodas, may result in gas and cause discomfort. Chewing gum and eating too quickly can lead to swallowing air, which again leads to gas. Also, large meals can cause cramping and diarrhea, so eating smaller meals more often or eating smaller portions should help Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. It may also help if your meals are low in fat and high in carbohydrates, such as pasta, rice, whole-grain breads and cereals (unless you have celiac disease), fruits, and vegetables. [Top]Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome linked to other diseases?Irritable Bowel Syndrome
itself is not a disease. As its name indicates, it is a syndrome Hope Through ResearchThe NIDDK conducts and supports research into many kinds of digestive disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Researchers are studying gastrointestinal motility and sensitivity to find possible treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. These studies include the structure and contraction of gastrointestinal muscles as well as the mechanics of fluid movement through the intestines. Understanding the influence of the nerves, hormones, and inflammation in Irritable Bowel Syndrome may lead to new treatments to better control the symptoms. [Top]Points to Remember Irritable
Bowel Syndrome is a disorder that interferes with the normal functions
of the colon. The symptoms are crampy abdominal pain, bloating, constipation,
and diarrhea. [Top] For More Information International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders The U.S. Government does not endorse or favor any specific commercial product or company. Trade, proprietary, or company names appearing in this document are used only because they are considered necessary in the context of the information provided. If a product is not mentioned, this does not mean or imply that the product is unsatisfactory. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse2 Information WayBethesda, MD 20892-3570 Email: nddic@info.niddk.nih.gov The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) is a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The NIDDK is part of the National Institutes of Health under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1980, the clearinghouse provides information about digestive diseases to people with digestive disorders and to their families, health care professionals, and the public. NDDIC answers inquiries, develops and distributes publications, and works closely with professional and patient organizations and Government agencies to coordinate resources about digestive diseases. Publications produced by the clearinghouse are carefully reviewed by both NIDDK scientists and outside experts. This fact sheet was reviewed by Michael Camilleri, M.D., Mayo Clinic Rochester. This e-text is not copyrighted. The clearinghouse encourages users of this e-pub to duplicate and distribute as many copies as desired. NIH Publication No. 03-693 |
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Peppermint OilBy Dr. Marcus LauxIrritable bowel syndrome is a painful and frequently frustrating disorder of the intestines that’s often difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are scientifically studied natural products that effectively reduce the distressing symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?Irritable Bowel Syndrome causes crampy pain, gassiness, bloating, and alterations in bowel habits. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is termed a functional disorder, because when the colon is examined, there is no visible sign of disease. While Irritable Bowel Syndrome causes significant pain and distress, no actual damage is occurring in the intestines.1,2 There is a wide variability in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Symptoms may be mild and fairly well tolerated. Or, the pain, discomfort, and bowel dysfunction may be disabling, limiting social interactions, employment, or travel.1,2 While some individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome have diarrhea (frequent, loose stools with an urgent need to move the bowels), others have constipation (hard, infrequent stools that are difficult to pass). And, still others may experience both. Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome also may have painful abdominal cramps and feel an urgent need to move the bowels, but are unable to do so.1,2 Irritable Bowel Syndrome - What are the causes?The small intestine receives digestive material from the stomach and delivers it to the large intestine (colon). About two quarts (2,000 ml) of digestive material enter the colon from the small intestine every day. The colon absorbs water and salts from the material, which is progressively moved through the colon. This progressive movement continues until most of the fluid and salts are absorbed into the body and stool is formed. The stool passes to the left side of the colon, where it is stored until a bowel movement occurs.3 Because researchers haven’t been able to find actual damage in the colon, it once was suggested that individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome have emotional problems or are overly susceptible to stress. While stress may cause the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome to intensify, it doesn’t cause the condition. Recent study has determined the colon muscle of an individual with Irritable Bowel Syndrome spasms after only mild stimulation. It’s thought the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome are produced by hyperactivity of the intestine.4-6 In other words, the intestines of individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome are more reactive to stressors and diet than usual. Almost everyone has experienced abdominal queasiness in response to everyday stress or certain foods. This may result in a brief bout of diarrhea or an upset stomach. However, this response is exaggerated in individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. How prevalent is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?Irritable Bowel Syndrome is very common. In fact, it’s one of the most frequent problems seen by family physicians. It’s the most common disorder diagnosed by gastroenterologists (physicians specializing in the treatment of digestive disorders). The overall prevalence rates range from 10% to 20% of the general population in most industrialized countries.1,2 As a result, the pain and disabling symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome result in significant socioeconomic costs, as well as reduction in quality of life for many individuals. What are the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?Normal bowel function varies from person to person. Some people move their bowels daily, while others may only have two to three stools a week. A normal bowel movement is soft, formed, and is easily passed without cramping or pain.3 Irritable Bowel Syndrome, however, causes abdominal cramps and pain, which are often severe and disabling. Bowel movements may be irregular and alternate between diarrhea and constipation. The diarrhea may be quite loose and watery. Mucous may be passed. There is often much straining, urgency, and feeling of incomplete evacuation (emptying).1,2,7 Abdominal bloating and passing of gas is common.1 Nausea, lack of appetite, heartburn, and belching may also be present.2 Sleep may be disrupted resulting in fatigue and lack of energy.8 Understandably, persons with Irritable Bowel Syndrome often feel anxious and depressed.9,10 Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is usually based on the continuous presence or recurrence of these symptoms for at least three months. Other intestinal conditions must be ruled out. These include Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer, inflammatory conditions of the stomach or pancreas, ulcers, infectious disease, or gastroesophageal reflux disease.2 Are there clinically demonstrated natural alternatives to the over-thecounter drugs prescribed by my doctor?Yes, both enteric-coated peppermint oil and clown’s mustard (in combination with other herbs) have significant scientific research behind them. Both have been demonstrated to benefit individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. What is clown’s mustard and what does it do?The scientific name for clown’s mustard is Iberis amara. Other names for this herb are wild candytuft and bitter candytuft. Clown’s mustard is a white-flowering plant from Spain, where it grows in dry soil on hillsides and in cornfields. It is also grown in Britain, France, and the United States. Iberis amara is a member of the Brassicaceae family. Iberis refers to its place of origin, the Iberian Peninsula. Amara means bitter.11 The key components of clown’s mustard are glycosides and flavonoids that have specific actions on gastrointestinal tract tone.12 Is here scientific evidence that clown’s mustard benefits people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome?There has been very impressive research on clown’s mustard (in combination with other herbs). And, it has been used with great success in Germany for many years to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome and other gastrointestinal diseases. In a study of an herbal combination containing clown’s mustard, 20 patients were given the herbal combination for three to 32 days. They all had been diagnosed with chronic functional disorders for at least one to 20 years. The symptoms the patients experienced included pressure and pain in the abdomen, belching, heartburn, vomiting, nausea, fullness, lack of appetite, constipation, and diarrhea. The patients had been treated for their problems with a variety of antacids, anti-spasmodic agents, and motilityinducing substances. For the purposes of the study, the patients stopped taking these medications and received treatment only with the herbal combination.13 Abdominal pressure and pain in the abdomen was the most common of all the experienced symptoms, with 11 of the patients rating it as severe. After six days of treatment, only six of the patients continued to rate their abdominal pain and pressure as severe. After two weeks, this symptom had completely resolved for 16 of the patients. Diarrhea had been rated as severe in five of the patients. By day 14, only one patient continued to have moderate diarrhea.13 Medications prescribed and taken for cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases often cause gastrointestinal problems. Because these conditions are chronic, these medications must be taken for a long time, often for life. With long-term use, these medications can cause erosion of the stomach lining and actual ulcers. Many of these medication- caused symptoms are similar to Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms: pressure and pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, abdominal fullness, and lack of appetite. Most, if not all, of the individuals who have gastrointestinal problems caused from medications experience two or more of these Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms.14 Forty patients who were taking medications for various types of cardiovascular disease and arthritis, and who were experiencing gastrointestinal problems related to their medications, were enrolled in a study. These symptoms included pressure and pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, abdominal fullness, and lack of appetite. Twenty patients received clown’s mustard combined with other herbs that support gastrointestinal motility. Three days after the trial started, a significant improvement of all symptoms was noted in those taking this combination. By day 14, abdominal pressure and pain, nausea, and heartburn were completely eliminated in the herbal combination group.14 Several other clinical trials that were conducted in Germany report similar results.15-18 How does this herb compare to prescription drugs?A study compared clown’s mustard (combined with other herbs) to Reglan® (metoclopramide), which is frequently prescribed to reduce the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. While metoclopramide is a very effective medication, it also has numerous side effects. Metoclopramide can cause fatigue, anxiety, agitation, jitteriness, insomnia, yellowing of the skin or eyes, changes in vision, hallucinations, and seizures. Because of these serious side effects, metoclopramide must not be taken longer than 12 weeks.19 In a comparison study, 77 subjects were randomized to receive treatment of either clown’s mustard in a combination with other herbs, or metoclopramide. All subjects had pain and pressure in the abdomen, cramping, abdominal fullness, nausea, heartburn, and lack of appetite. The subjects took 20 drops of their assigned treatment after meals three times daily. The duration of treatment was one to two weeks. In both groups, a parallel improvement of all symptoms was observed. At no point in the study was a statistically significant difference in symptoms found. Both treatments significantly reduced pain and pressure in the abdomen, cramping, abdominal fullness, nausea, heartburn, and lack of appetite. In short, both metoclopramide and the clown’s mustard herbal combination worked well at reducing the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. However, side effects occurred more frequently and severely in the metoclopramide group.20 Given the lack of differences noted between the products at reducing symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, it would seem sensible to choose the treatment with the fewest reported side effects and no limits on duration of use. What evidence supports use of entericcoated peppermint oil capsules for Irritable Bowel Syndrome?Peppermint oil has been shown to relax intestinal smooth muscle.21-24 In Great Britain, peppermint oil is currently being prescribed for Irritable Bowel Syndrome by physicians and it has been used as a digestive aid and to soothe upset stomachs for generations.25 Peppermint oil has also been studied for use in an important examination of the colon. A colonoscopy is a procedure of viewing the interior lining of the large intestine (colon) using a colonoscope, a slender, flexible, hollow, lighted tube about the thickness of a finger. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine supports the idea that even people who are not at risk for colon cancer should have this test.26 The American Cancer Society recommends that men and women at average risk of colon cancer should have a colonoscopy every 10 years, beginning at age 50.27 During a colonoscopy, individuals are sedated and almost no discomfort is experienced. The insertion of the colonoscope into the rectum and up through the colon causes some spasming. This is a natural and expected event and the physician performing the exam administers medications that effectively reduce the spasms. A recent study compared the use of peppermint oil and commonly used medications to reduce the colonic spasming in colonoscopy. The peppermint oil was introduced directly into the colon. Effective reduction of colon spasming was observed in 88% of the patients.28 In a critical review and meta-analysis of peppermint oil for irritable bowel syndrome published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology, eight randomized controlled trials were identified. The studies collectively showed peppermint oil is superior to placebo in improvement of the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Because of the good results of these trials, the authors of the review urged additional study of peppermint oil in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.29 However, straight peppermint oil is rapidly absorbed into the blood stream from the stomach. In recent studies comparing enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules and non-enteric coated oil, both preparations provided effective symptom relief. However, the studies concluded the enteric-coated capsules delivered the benefit of the peppermint oil directly to the intestines.30,31 In the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, enteric-coated supplemental peppermint is most definitely preferred. In fact, an enteric-coated peppermint oil capsule containing rosemary and thyme is extremely effective in the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. All three of these oils are classified as volatile oils, derivatives found in plants that impart taste and aroma. The combination of peppermint, thyme, and rosemary oils in enteric-coated capsules provides significant relief in Irritable Bowel Syndrome-related pain. Can clown’s mustard and other herbs be taken with enteric-coated peppermint oil?Yes, peppermint oil capsules and clown’s mustard can be used together. However, depending on the symptoms, individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome may want to start with one supplement and then add the other if needed. How do consumers find these formulas?Fortunately, herbal combinations containing clown’s mustard and enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are both available at health food stores, natural product supermarkets, pharmacies, and from health professionals. Most knowledgeable sales personnel and health professionals can direct consumers to the most effective products. What should customers look for when purchasing peppermint oil?As mentioned before, enteric coating of the peppermint oil is extremely important. The coating prevents the oil from being absorbed in the stomach. The enteric coated-capsule moves through the stomach to the small intestine and eventually to the colon, where it is released for maximum benefit. What is the dosage for peppermint oil?The German Commission E approved peppermint oil for the treatment of irritable colon. In enteric-coated form, the Commission E recommends 0.6 ml per day.32 Enteric-coated peppermint capsules are available. Are there side effects or other contraindications?Sometimes, the enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules may cause a transient burning sensation in the rectum when moving their bowels. Reducing the dose will correct this. Individuals who must refrain from alcohol should not take clown’s mustard in an herbal tincture, which may contain alcohol. What else can Irritable Bowel Syndrome patients do to feel better?Food allergies or food intolerance may be associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Dairy products and certain grains may trigger a painful episode of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Determining those foods that initiate the problems and eliminating them from your diet can be very helpful.33 Many people report their symptoms occur after a meal. Hyperactivity of the intestine of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is the response. Often, the strength of this response after a meal is in direct relation to the number of calories and the amount of fat in the meal. Reducing saturated fat, limiting calories, and increasing fiber intake may be helpful.34-35 Stress also stimulates the intestinal hyperactivity. Relaxation training may reduce some Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. Listening to therapeutic audiotapes, hypnosis, counseling, and biofeedback all have been shown to improve the healing response in persons with Irritable Bowel Syndrome.36-39 ConclusionIrritable Bowel Syndrome can be painful and frustrating, capable of causing much distress. While currently there is no cure for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, the symptoms can be managed. The pain, abdominal discomfort, and bowel problems of Irritable Bowel Syndrome all respond well to treatment with the use of key herbs, including clown’s mustard, and enteric-coated peppermint oil. These herbal combinations can be both effective and safe in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Clown’s mustard and enteric-coated peppermint oil are both effective front-line natural alternatives for Irritable Bowel Syndrome treatment. References1. Ringel Y, Sperber AD, Drossman DA. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Annu Rev Med. 2001;52:319-338. 2. Porth CM. Irritable bowel syndrome. In: Pathophysiology: Concepts of Altered Health States. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 1998: 729-730. 3. Guyton AC, Hall JE. Movements of the colon. In: Textbook of Medical Physiology. Philadelphia, Pa: W.B. Saunders Company;1998: 810-812. 4. Simren M, Castedal M, Svedlund J, Abrahamsson H, Bjornsson E. Abnormal propagation pattern of duodenal pressure waves in the irritable bowel syndrome (IBD). Dig Dis Sci. 2000;45:2151-2161. 5. Elsenbruch S, Orr WC. Diarrhea-and constipation-predominant IBS patients differ in postpriandial autonomic and cortisol responses. Am J Gastroenerol. 2001;96:460-466. 6. Aros SD, Camilleri M. Small-bowel motility. Curr Opin Gastroenterol. 2001;17:140-146. 7. Collins SM. Stress and the gastrointestinal tract IV. Modulation of intestinal by stress: basic mechanisms and clinical relevance. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol. 2001;280: G315-G318. 8. Jarrett M, Heitkemper M, Cain KC, Burr RL, Hertig V. Sleep disturbance influences gastrointestinal symptoms in women with irritable bowel syndrome. Dig Dis Sci. 2000;45:952-959. 9. Herschbach P, Henrich G, von Rad M. Psychological factors in functional gastrointestinal disorders: characteristics of the disorder or of the illness behavior? Psychosom Med. 1999;61:148-153. 10. Whitehead WE, Crowell MD. Psychologic considerations in the irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 1991;20:249-267. 11. Iberis amara. Plants for a Future Database. Available at: www.metalab.unc.edu. Accessed June 29, 1999. 12. Iberogast® for functional Gastro-Intestinal Diseases. Darmstadt, Germany: Steigerwald, 1998. Scientific Brochure. 13. Bruckel MH, Gisevius W. Therapeutic effect of Iberis amara in functional gastric disorders. Arztliche Praxis. 1984;494-498. 14. MacLean N, Hubner-Steiner U. Treatment of drug related gastrointestinal disorders. Fortschritte der Medizin. 1987;12:239-242. 15. Bleimann H, Hartman R. Treatment of functional gastrointestinal symptoms with Iberogast®. Gastro Entero Hepatologie. 1984;52-59. 16. Holsher HJ. Treatment of non-specific upper gastrointestinal symptoms in elderly patients. Therapiewoche. 1984;34:657-659. 17. Ohms P. Daily oral treatment: how long can the stomach tolerate it? Arztliche Praxis. 1983;11:3109-3110. 18. Steimer P. Iberogast® therapy in gastroenterology. Der Krankenhaus Arzt. 1983;56:1005-1008. 19. Reglan® (metoclopramide). In: Physicians’ Desk Reference. 54th ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc; 2000:2603-2605. 20. Nickolay K. Double blind trial of metoclopramide and Iberogast® in functional gastroenterology. Gastro Entero Hepatologie. 1984;2:4. 21. Beesley A, Hardcastle J, Hardcastle PT, Taylor CJ. Influence of peppermint oil on absorptive and secretory processes in rat small intestine. Gut. 1996;39:214-219. 22. Dew MJ, Evans BK, Rhodes J. Peppermint oil for the irritable bowel syndrome: a multicentre trial. Br J Clin Pr.12:394, 398. 23. Hawthorn M, Ferrante J, Luchowski E, Rutledge A, Wei XY, Triggle DJ. The actions of peppermint oil and menthol on calcium channel dependent processes in intestinal, neuronal and cardiac preparations. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 1988;2:101-118. 24. Hills JM, Aaroncon PI. The mechanism of action of peppermint oil on gastrointestinal smooth muscle. An analysis using patch clamp electrophysiology and isolated tissue pharmacology in rabbit and guinea pig. Gastroenterology. 1991;101:55-56. 25. Kingham JGC. Commentary: peppermint oil and colon spasm. Lancet. 1995;346:986. 26. Lieberman DA, Weiss DG, Bond JH, Ahnen DJ, Garewal H, Chejfec G. Use of colonoscopy to screen asymptomatic adults for colorectal cancer. Veterans Affairs Cooperative Study Group. N Engl J Med. 2000, 343:162-168. 27. American Cancer Society. Colon and Rectal Cancer.
Available at: www3.cancer.org 28. Asao T, Mochiki E, Suzuki H, et al. An easy method for the intraluminal administration of peppermint oil before colonoscopy and its effectiveness in reducing colonic spasms. Gastrointest Endosc. 2001;53:172-177. 29. Pittler MH, Ernst E. Peppermint oil for irritable bowel syndrome: a critical review and metaanalysis. Am J Gastroenterol. 93:1131-1135. 30. May B, Kuntz HD, Keiser M, Kohler S. Efficacy of a fixed peppermint/ caraway oil combination in non-ulcer dyspepsia. Arzneim- Forsch. 1996;46:1149-1153. 31. Micklefield GH, Greving I, May B. Effects of peppermint oil and caraway oil on gastroduodenal motility. Phytother Res. 14:20-23. 32. Peppermint oil. In: Blumenthal M., ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs. Austin, Tex: American Botanical Council; Integrative Medicine Communications; 1998:181-182. 33. Mascolo R, Satzman JR. Lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome. Nutr Rev. 1998. 56:306-308. 34. Friedman G. Diet and the irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 1991;20:313-324. 35. Goldstein R, Braverman D, Stankiewicz H. Carbohydrate malabsorption and the effect of dietary restriction on the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and functional bowel complaints. Isr Med Assoc J. 2000;2:582-587. 36. Leahy A, Clayman C, Mason I, Lloyd G, Epstein O. Computerised biofeedback games: a new method for teaching stress management and its use in irritable bowel syndrome. J R Coll Physicians Lond. 1998;32:552-556. 37. Boyce P, Gilchrist J, Talley NJ, Rose D. Cognitive-behaviour therapy as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot study. Aust N Z J Psychiatry. 2000. 34:300-309. 38. Read NW. Harnessing the patient’s powers of recovery: the role of the psychotherapies in the irritable bowel syndrome. Baillieres Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 1999;13:473-487. 39. Forbes A, MacAuley S, Ciotakakou-Faliakou E. Hypnotherapy and therapeutic audiotape: effective in previously unsuccessfully treated irritable bowel syndrome? Int J Colorectal Dis. 2000;15: 328-334. |
IBS - Open ThreadShare your experience with irritable bowel symdrome. Selective stimulation of the growth of anaerobic microflora in the human intestinal tract by electrolyzed reducing waterBy the Department of Physiology of Microorganisms, Lomonosov Moscow State University 96-99% of
the "friendly" or residential microflora of intestinal tract
of humans consists of strict anaerobes and only 1-4% of aerobes. Many
diseases of the intestine are due to a disturbance in the balance of the
microorganisms inhabiting the gut. The treatment of such diseases involves
the restoration of the quantity and/or balance of residential microflora
in the intestinal tract. It is known that aerobes and anaerobes grow at
different oxidation-reduction potentials (ORP). The former require positive
E(h) values up to +400 mV. Anaerobes do not grow unless the E(h) value
is negative between -300 and -400 mV. In this work, it is suggested that
prerequisite for the recovery and maintenance of obligatory anaerobic
microflora in the intestinal tract is a negative ORP value of the intestinal
milieu. Electrolyzed reducing water
with E(h) values between 0 and -300 mV produced in electrolysis devices
possesses this property. Drinking such water favours the growth of residential
microflora in the gut. A sufficient array of data confirms this idea.
However, most researchers explain the mechanism of its action by an antioxidant
properties destined to detox the oxidants in the gut and other host tissues.
Evidence is presented in favour of the hypothesis that the primary target
for electrolyzed reducing water is the residential microflora in the gut. Vorobjeva NV. Department of Physiology of Microorganisms, Biology Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992 Moscow, Russia. Med Hypotheses. 2005;64(3):543-6. Irritable Bowel Nutrional Supplement ChecklistHealth
Notes
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Oxidative stress in colon tissue induced by vitamin E depletion.Biochem Soc Trans. 2004 Dec;32(Pt 6):979-81. Inflammatory disorders of the bowel and colon cancer are associated with elevated indices of oxidative stress. Analogous elevations in markers of oxidative stress and loss of cell-membrane integrity are also observed in the colons of rats deficient in vitamin E (D-alpha-tocopherol), the major lipid-soluble antioxidant in biological systems. The causal relationship between colon pathologies associated with oxidative stress and dietary deficiency in antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin E is still uncertain. Investigation of potential mechanisms by which lack of dietary vitamin E may lead to clinically relevant pathological changes in colon tissue was conducted using gene expression profiling strategies on vitamin E-sufficient and -deficient rats. Morphological changes and increased indices of lipid peroxidation were linked to vitamin E deficiency. These changes in colon tissue are potentially important in disease pathogenesis of the colon linked with oxidative stress or other direct consequences of inadequate levels of vitamin E. Credits: Abstract Digestive Disorder ResourcesRelated Digestive DisordersGovernment, Educational & Charitable Institutions Other disorders can have symptoms that may be similar to, or include, irritable bowel syndrome. You can find out more information. Gluten
intolerance/Celiac disease is the result of an autoimmune system
response to the ingestion of gluten (from wheat, rye, and barley) that
damages the small intestine. Classic symptoms include: diarrhea, bloating,
weight loss, anemia, chronic fatigue, weakness, bone pain, and muscle
cramps. Crohn's
disease is a serious inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal
(GI) tract. It predominates in the intestine (ileum) and the large intestine
(colon), but may occur in any section of the GI tract. Crohn's disease
usually causes diarrhea, crampy abdominal pain, often fever, and at times
rectal bleeding. Loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss also may
occur. Symptoms may range from mild to severe, but in general people with
Crohn's disease can lead active and productive lives. Cyclic
Vomiting Syndrome
(CVS) is an uncommon, unexplained disorder of children and some adults
that is characterized by recurrent, prolonged episodes of severe nausea,
vomiting and prostration with no apparent cause. Eosinophilic
Enteropathy
is a digestive system disorder in which eosinophils, a type of white blood
cell, are found in above normal amounts in the digestive system. Symptoms
vary depending on where and in what number the eosinophils are found.
Also, symptoms tend to be highly specific to each individual case. Common
symptoms may include pain, swelling, skin rash or hives, reflux, choking,
difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stools containing
blood and/or mucus, abdominal cramping, and/or diarrhea. Hepatitis
is an inflammation of the liver caused by a hepatitis virus. Symptoms
vary and may include light stools, dark urine, fatigue, fever, nausea,
vomiting, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Some persons have mild flu-like
symptoms, and some people experience no symptoms. Interstitial
cystitis (IC) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the bladder.
Its cause is unknown. Symptoms vary and may include frequency, urgency,
lower abdominal pain, muscle and joint pain, migraines, allergic reactions,
and gastrointestinal problems. An ostomy
refers to the surgically created opening in the body for the discharge
of body wastes. There are many different types of ostomies. Parenteral
and enteral nutrition. Sometimes a person cannot receive enough
nutrients from the food they eat because of a severe gastrointestinal
(GI) disorder that impairs their ability to swallow food, move food along
the GI tract, or absorb nutrients from the food. In such cases, home parenteral
or enteral (homePEN) nutrition support may be necessary. Ulcerative
colitis is an inflammatory disease of the colon, the large
intestine, which is characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the
innermost lining of the colon. Symptoms characteristically include diarrhea
with or without rectal bleeding and often abdominal pain. Urinary
incontinence. Urinary
incontinence (loss of bladder control) was conservatively reported in
1996 by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to affect
15%-30% of community-dwelling adults and at least half of all individuals
confined to nursing homes. This translates into 13 million Americans,
11 million, or 85%, of whom are estimated to be women.
Government, Educational and Charitable InstitutionsFor kids and teens Band-Aides & Blackboards is a site about growing up with medical problems ...any ole type. Its goal is to help people understand what it's like, from the perspective of the children and teens who are doing just that. These kids have become experts at coping with problems. They'd like you to know how they do it, and they hope that you'll be glad you came to visit. Be MedWise is a public education initiative by the National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE) a nonprofit coalition of over 150 government, consumer, patient advocacy and public health organizations. NCPIE serves as a source of reliable information about the proper use of medicines, and Be MedWise seeks to promote a better understanding that over-the-counter (OTC) drug products are serious medicines and must be taken with care. The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research (SIR) is a British Columbia, Canada based registered charity. Established in 1976, SIR is dedicated to funding education and research regarding gastrointestinal diseases and disorders with particular emphasis on Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recognized as the lead U.S. federal agency for protecting the health and safety of people. The U.S. National Institutes of Health, through its National Library of Medicine, has developed ClinicalTrials.gov to provide patients, family members and members of the public current information about clinical research studies. Family Village is a global community that integrates information, resources, and communication opportunities on the Internet for persons with cognitive and other disabilities, for their families, and for those that provide them services and support. They includes informational resources on specific diagnoses, communication connections, adaptive products and technology,adaptive recreational activities, education, worship, health issues, disability-related media and literature, and more. Healthfinder® is a site, developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services together with other Federal agencies, for finding government and nonprofit health and human services information on the Internet. It links to information and Web sites from over 1,800 health-related organizations. Health and medical information and resources are available from the Mayo Clinic. MEDLINEplus has extensive information from the National Institutes of Health and other trusted sources on over 500 diseases and conditions. It also lists hospitals and physicians, a medical encyclopedia and dictionaries, health information in Spanish, extensive information on prescription and nonprescription drugs, health information from the media, and links to clinical trials. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is 1 of the 27 institutes and centers that make up the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The mission of NCCAM is to support rigorous research on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), to train researchers in CAM, and to disseminate information to the public and professionals on which CAM modalities work, which do not, and why. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) is a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). NIDDK is part of the National Institutes of Health under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1980, the clearinghouse provides information about digestive diseases to people with digestive disorders and to their families, health care professionals, and the public. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) is 1 of the 27 institutes and centers that make up the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIDDK conducts and supports research on many of the most serious diseases affecting public health, including digestive diseases. The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is a unique federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare "orphan" diseases and assisting the organizations that serve them. NORD is committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service. The UCLA Center for Neurovisceral Sciences & Women's Health is an NIH-funded, interdisciplinary basic and translational research program focused on various aspects of mind brain body interactions in health and disease. The Center seeks better understanding of such common gastrointestinal disorders as irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, and common urological disorders such as irritable bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis). The University
of North Carolina (UNC) Center for Functional GI & Motility Disorders
is a multidisciplinary facility dedicated to advancing the understanding
and care of patients with functional disorders. Their web site offers
up-to-date information on Functional GI and Motility Disorders for both
the professional and the patient, and provides information on the Center
and its research, training, patient education and clinical treatment. About Irritable Bowel Syndrome contains reliable information and support from IFFGD about characteristics and treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Professional OrganizationsThe American Academy of Family Physicians provides a wealth of health information for the entire family. The American College of Gastroenterology was founded in 1932 to advance the study and medical treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Founded in 1917, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) is the largest organization of food and nutrition professionals in the USA. The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) was founded in 1897 and is the oldest nonprofit specialty medical society in the country. The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons is the leading professional society representing more than 1000 board certified Colon and Rectal surgeons and other surgeons dedicated to advancing and promoting the science and practice of the treatment of patients with diseases and disorders affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy represents over 7,000 gastroenterologists, surgeons, and other digestive health specialists who remain committed to furthering the knowledge of the diagnosis and treatment of GI disease through the appropriate use of endoscopic techniques. The North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) strives to improve the care of infants, children and adolescents with digestive disorders by promoting advances in clinical care, research and education. The Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) provides several resources for patients and the general public to educate themselves about surgical options. Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates. Gastroenterology (GI) nursing is a specialty practice area in which nurses and associates provide care to patients with known or suspected gastrointestinal problems who are undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic treatment and/or procedures. Founded in 1968, the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) is a professional, international nursing society of more than 3,700 nurse professionals who are experts in the care of patients with wound, ostomy and continence problems. Events Calendar
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