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April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month

April 17, 2009 – The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders has designated April as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Month. IBS is one of the most common problems that doctors see, secondary to the common cold. It affects between 25-45 million people of all ages and is one of the leading causes of absenteeism from work or school.

IBS is a long-term or recurrent disorder of gastrointestinal functioning. It usually involves the large intestine (colon) and small intestine with symptoms of abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating or a feeling of gas and a change in bowel habits (diarrhea and/or constipation). Other signs of IBS include the urgency to have a bowel movement or mucous in the stool. Symptoms can fluctuate over time and patients can experience bouts of remission. However, IBS is a long-lasting, or chronic, condition.

A thorough evaluation by a physician is an important step in diagnosing and selecting the proper treatment. Treatment of IBS can vary dependent upon individual symptoms. While some patients may experience relief with a change in diet, others may require more intensive therapy with medication.

If you think you suffer from IBS and would like to be evaluated, ask your doctor for a referral to the MUSC Digestive Disease Center.