DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Gastroenterologic Disease

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

LOW SEVERITY

A common functional gastrointestinal disorder affecting the large intestine, characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both). Brain-gut interaction disorder without structural abnormalities. Affects 10-15% of global population.

Global Affected

780.0M

Countries

111

Symptoms

Abdominal pain/cramping
Bloating
Gas
Diarrhea (IBS-D)
Constipation (IBS-C)
Mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)
Mucus in stool
Urgency
Incomplete evacuation

Treatment Options

Dietary modifications (low-FODMAP)
Fiber supplementation
Antispasmodics
Peppermint oil
Probiotics
Laxatives (IBS-C)
Loperamide (IBS-D)
TCAs/SSRIs
Guanylate cyclase-C agonists
Rifaximin

Risk Factors

1Young age (<50)
2Female gender
3Family history
4Stress/anxiety/depression
5Food intolerances
6Gastroenteritis (post-infectious IBS)
7Early life adversity
8Sexual/physical abuse history

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Rome IV criteria
  • 2Exclusion of organic disease
  • 3Stool studies
  • 4Blood tests
  • 5Colonoscopy (alarm features)
  • 6Lactose/fructose breath testing
  • 7Fecal calprotectin

Prognosis

Chronic condition with fluctuating course. Symptoms improve in 30-40% over time. Quality of life significantly impacted. Not associated with increased mortality or cancer risk.

Prevention

  • Stress management
  • Regular exercise
  • Healthy diet
  • Adequate sleep
  • Probiotics (possibly)
  • Avoiding trigger foods

Research Status

Low-FODMAP diet effective. Gut-directed hypnotherapy showing promise. Guanylate cyclase-C agonists (linaclotide, plecanatide) for IBS-C. Rifaximin for IBS-D. Eluxadoline (mixed opioid agonist) for IBS-D. Microbiome modulation research. Brain-gut behavioral therapies expanding.

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
  • https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.