IBS - Shwartz

Question 1

What factors may worsen IBS?

Answer 1

Caffeine, large meals, stress, fatty food, menses, contraction of abdominal muscles (in severe cases), lactose, fatty foods, sorbitol gum, alcohol, food sensitivity, gassy foods, low fiber (for constipation)

genetic predisposition, females>males, younger age, stress, abuse, infection and inflammation (acute gastroenteritis- 6-17%, many recover after 6 years), bacterial overgrowth, intestinal gas and motility, no ACG activity

Question 2

Treatment of IBS

Answer 2

Fiber for constipation

Food elimination

Cognitive Based Therapy, psychotherapy, hypnosis, relaxation

Anti-diarrheals for diarrhea, Laxatives for constipation

Symptom diary

Pain meds

SSRIs for constipation and Cyclics for diarrhea