Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects the stomach and intestines, causing symptoms such as pain, bloating, and cramps. If the pain worsens or you start losing weight, seek advice from a medical professional. Here are some common causes of irritable bowel syndrome:
Inflammation
When intestines are inflamed due to stress or infections, they often react more strongly to normal digestion, causing pain and discomfort. Inflamed intestines either move food through your digestive system too quickly, causing diarrhea, or too slowly, leading to constipation. With IBS, your immune system might remain active even when there is not a possible threat to your body. An ongoing immune response often causes discomfort and interferes with normal digestion, resulting in abdominal pain and cramping. Eating a nutrient-rich diet helps you maintain a healthy gut and manage inflammation. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to maintain hydration and support digestion, potentially reducing inflammation.
Bacterial Overgrowth
Bacterial overgrowth occurs when harmful bacteria in the gut outnumber beneficial bacteria. Bad bacteria increase the amount of gas produced during meal digestion, causing bloating and discomfort. Certain harmful bacteria produce toxins that lead to soreness and swelling, which may contribute to irritable bowel syndrome. When the gut bacteria fail to communicate digestive information to the brain, it could lead to increased sensitivity and worsen the symptoms. To manage bacterial overgrowth, a doctor might suggest eating foods rich in probiotics to balance gut bacteria.
Food sensitivities
Some foods, such as those high in fat, can slow down digestion and increase pressure in the intestines, causing bloating. Drinking too much alcohol also irritates the gut lining and alters the balance of gut bacteria, resulting in sensitivity. Caffeine contains substances that may increase bowel activity, triggering diarrhea in some people with IBS. Many people have difficulty digesting lactose, leading to gas, bloating, and diarrhea, which are common signs of irritable bowel syndrome. A specialist can help you identify the root cause of your IBS and suggest a diet plan that minimizes irritation and discomfort.
Gastrointestinal Infections
When your body fights off an infection, it can lead to changes in how the gut functions. After experiencing a stomach infection caused by bacteria or viruses, you might start experiencing ongoing digestive problems. You could feel too full or experience sustained pain in your lower abdomen, which may indicate early signs of irritable bowel syndrome. The harm caused by the original stomach infection often triggers gut sensitivities, making digestion painful. Other individuals who develop irritable bowel syndrome after a gastrointestinal infection may experience nausea. If you develop this digestive health issue after an infection, visit a healthcare provider for diagnosis and proper treatment.
Seek Treatment for IBS
Whether you have mild or severe IBS symptoms, visit a doctor to determine the root causes of this health condition and seek a proper course of treatment. Experts help you identify triggers and create a well-balanced diet to help you manage your symptoms. IBS can also be regulated at home with diet changes, stress reduction, and better sleep. To improve digestion and reduce discomfort, see a specialist today.
