IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

IBS is the most common GI condition diagnosed in this country. Unfortunately, it is used when no specific illness such as ulcerative colitis, etcetera can be found. It is frustrating for the doctors who have no specific treatment and especially for the patient who cannot find any explanation for the condition nor any reliable treatment. Cramps, bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea are blamed on emotional-psychological factors. Who would not have increased stress and upset when faced with symptoms that disrupt a normal life and social enjoyment.

The truth is there are many underlying and often missed diagnosed factors leading to IBS:

• 1. Food allergy and sensitivity - includes lactose intolerance and gluten sensitivity. Blood tests are not very reliable and the patient may be sensitive to food thickeners and additives whose presence they are not aware of.
• 2. Pancreatic insufficiency - the pancreatic gland hidden at the back of the abdomen makes many vital digestive enzymes. Measuring its function is difficult and is usually not done.
• 3. Achlorhydria – big word meaning stomach does not make enough acid for proper digestion. Measuring the stomach acid production is a very important and easy test which is not commonly done.
• 4. Bacterial overgrowth - beneficial bacteria in the lower intestine are vital for our health and well being. For various reasons, bacteria can sometimes migrate to the upper intestinal tract where they grow rapidly creating gas, inflammation, and cramps. This is a new concept and will prove very beneficial in the treatment of IBS.
• 5. Autonomic nervous system - this is the silent part of our nervous system that controls our internal organs. It controls the peristalsis (muscular contractions) and enzyme production along this disassembly line as food is broken down. If it is not functioning in a coordinated fashion, yes you guess it, cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea can result. This nervous system in turn is very sensitive to the adequate levels of various vitamins and minerals, and again there are tests to determine how effective it is performing.

These five areas give you an idea of how much can be done for IBD in the right hands.