Irritable Bowel syndrome – not as bad as IBD

• A variable combination of chronic or recurrent GI symptoms (attributed to pharynx, esophagus, stomach, SI, etc…) Not explained by structural or biomechanical abnormalities
• Chronic or recurrent
• Lower abdomin pain
• Disturbed defecation – diarrhea or constipation
• Bloating
• NOT EXPLAINED by structural (anatomical) or biomechanical abnormality
• Nervous system seems to be major playor
• So if IBS, that means that all anatomical biomechanical problems have been excluded

• We even know what neuro tracks are involved
• Genetics and environment play a role
• Bowel symptom improvement parallels psychological improvement
• Stress, anxiety

• Adjustments / acupuncture help
• Education of pt - it is not cancer
• Focus on health, not illness
• Some may get antidepressants, but then that can cause more problems for pt
• Exercise can help mental health
• There is not usually a trigger food w/ IBS, but if there is something that bothers them, just avoid that

Category: Gastroenterology Notes , Medicine Notes