IBS

Question 1

What is IBS?

Answer 1

Irritable bowel syndrome is a bowel disorder. Highly prevalent 20% of population.

Question 2

What are the RF?

Answer 2

Diet (alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine can all trigger), stress, anxiety

Question 3

Symptoms of IBS?

Answer 3

Symptoms relieved by opening bowel, fluctuating bowel habit, abdominal cramps, constipation, diarrhoea

Question 4

What investigations needed for diagnosis?

Answer 4

• Faecal calprotectin will be negative to rule out IBD
• Anti-TTG antibodies to rule out coeliac disease
• Normal FB, ESR, CRP blood tests

Question 5

What is the Mx for IBS?

Answer 5

• Limit caffeine and alchohol
• Adequate fluid intake
• Reduce trigger foods

1st line

• Anti-diarrhoeal e.g. Loperamide
• Bulk forming laxative e.g. isphagula husk
• Antipasmodics for cramps e.g. hyoscine butylbromide