19th April marks World Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Day
According to Dr Ajit Sood (Professor & Head of Gastroenterogy, DMCH), IBS is a chronic disorder
cityairnews
Apr 18, 2021 03:44
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Ludhiana: Every year, 19th April is observed as the “World IBS Day” worldwide. The purpose of celebration of this day is to spread awareness on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This syndrome affects every 1 in 11 people in the World. It is one of the most burdensome chronic ailments reported by patients that significantly affects their quality of life. However, due to lack of awareness, on an average it takes more than 6 years from symptom onset to IBS Diagnosis. Also, less than 50% people with IBS actually seek medical care. Therefore, to raise awareness on IBS, theme for World IBS Day 2021 is “Let’s Talk IBS”.
According to Dr Ajit Sood (Professor & Head of Gastroenterogy, DMCH) , IBS is a chronic disorder that is characterized by recurring abdominal discomfort or pain associated with either constipation, diarrhea or both. There are 3 types of IBS based on abnormal bowel movements: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) & IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M) which includes alternating periods of constipation and diarrhea.
The precise cause of IBS is not known. Factors that appear to play a role include abnormal muscle contractions in the intestine, abnormalities in the nerves in digestive system, severe infection & changes in bacteria in the gut (microflora). Certain foods or beverages (such as dairy products, beans, cabbage, milk and carbonated drinks), stress & hormonal changes (in women) may trigger or worsen IBS symptoms.
Dr Sood suggests if a patient is having following symptoms since long like -- abdominal pain & cramping, diarrhea or constipation, bloating & gas, mucus in stool & urgency to pass stool after food then these symptoms should warrant a consultation with a gastroenterologist. The impact of IBS varies with each person. For some, IBS causes symptoms that are manageable/mild & do not interfere with daily activities. For others, IBS may severely reduce quality of life or be disabling.
As per Dr Ajit Sood, if a patient is diagnosed with IBS, he/she should not panic as it is possible to live a good quality life with proper management of IBS.
