lbs full form

Full Form of IBS


IBS stand for the Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you will need to manage for a long time.

What are the different types of IBS?

Researchers classify IBS based on the type of bowel problems you have. The type of IBS can affect your treatment. Some medications only work for certain types of IBS. Often, people with IBS have normal bowel movements on some days and abnormal on other days. The type of IBS you have depends on the abnormal bowel movements you experience:

  • IBS with Constipation (IBS-C): Most of your stool is hard and lumpy.
  • IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D): Most of your stool is loose and watery.
  •  IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M): You have hard and lumpy bowel movements and both loose and watery movements in a single day.

How does IBS affect my body?

In people with IBS, the colon muscles contract more than in people without the condition. These contractions cause cramping and pain. People with IBS also have a reduced ability to tolerate pain. Research has also suggested that people with IBS may have excess bacteria in the GI tract, which contributes to symptoms.

Who is at risk for developing IBS?

This condition often occurs in people in their late teens to early 40s. Women may be twice as likely to have IBS than men. IBS can happen to many members of the family.

You may be at higher risk if you have:

  • Family history of IBS.
  • Emotional stress, tension or anxiety.
  • Food intolerance.
  • History of physical or sexual abuse.
  • Severe digestive tract infection.

What triggers IBS?

If you have IBS, you may have noticed that certain things trigger symptoms. Common triggers include certain foods and medications. Emotional stress can also be a trigger. Some researchers suggest that IBS is a response of the gut to the stresses of life.

How common is IBS?

Experts estimate that approximately 10% to 15% of the adult population in the United States has IBS. However, only 5% to 7% receive an IBS diagnosis. This is the most common disease diagnosed by gastroenterologists.

How can I control IBS?

Trying to get control of IBS can be frustrating. Treatment can often be trial and error. But the good news is that almost everyone with IBS can find a treatment that helps them. Usually, changes in diet and activity improve symptoms over time. You may need to have a little patience to figure out your triggers so that you can take steps to avoid them. But after a few weeks or months, you should see a significant improvement in your feelings. A nutritionist can help you plan a healthy, nutritious diet that meets your needs.