Irritable Bowel

What is it?

An irritable bowel (also know as irritable colon or irritable digestive system) is one that does not work smoothly and causes abdominal problems such as colicky pain and disturbed bowel actions. The bowel is a muscular tube that propels the food along in waves (called peristalsis). This muscular action may become overactive and cause spasms or tight contractions rather like a cramp in the leg muscles.

What are the causes?

There is no clear-cut proven cause but one theory is that an important factor is emotional stress, especially in those people who tend to 'bottle things up inside'. However, there is no proof supporting this theory.

Possible causes or aggravating factors are:

• infection of the bowel
• food irritation (e.g.spicy food)
• food allergy (e.g.milk, cream)
• lack of bulk (fibre) in the diet
• overuse of laxatives
• pain-killing drugs and antibiotics
• smoking
• salicytes or related chemicals such as aspirin, food colourings and fresh pineapple

What are the symptoms?

The main symptom is a vague discomfort or a cramp-like pain in the abdomen (in the centre or lower left side). This pain is usually relieved by passing wind or by a bowel movement.

Diarrhoea or constipation may occur, and sometimes the motions will be like small, hard pellets. Mucus may also be passed from time to time. You may also feel mildly nauseated, off your food, bloated or flatulent (windy). There may also be a sensation of incomplete emptying of the bowel.

How common is it?

At least 1 person in every 100 has it, and many simply learn to live with it. Some authorities believe that up to 30% of the population have it to some degree. It can develop at any age but it usually begins in the later teens or early 20's. It is likely to affect twice as many women as men.

What are the risks?

The irritable bowel is harmless, but it is common for those with it to worry that they have cancer. It is usual to carry out investigations to ensure that there is no disease in the bowel. There is no cure and the problem may come and go for years.

What is the treatment?

Anyone with an irritable bowel should try to work out the things that make the symptoms worse. If you recognise stresses and strains in your life, try to develop a more relaxed lifestyle. You may have to be less of a perfectionist in your approach to life.

Try to avoid any foods that you can identify as causing the problem. You may have to restrict or cut out smoking and alcohol. A high-fibre diet may be the answer to your problem. This can be helped by adding 2 teaspoonfuls of unprocessed bran to your diet each day if increased fibre and fluids have not quite settled the problem.

If self-help measures are not controlling the problem, your doctor will be able to give you medicine to settle the painful spasm of an irritable bowel. You should avoid taking any medicines not recommended by your doctor.