Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Question 1

What is the cause of IBS?

Answer 1

Unknown

Question 2

IBS is a functional disorder, what does that mean?

Answer 2

There is a problem with function, but no abnormality in structure or appearance

Question 3

What age group does IBS commonly affect?

Answer 3

Young adults

Slightly more common in women

Question 4

What are the three main symptoms of IBS?

Answer 4

Pain (bouts)
Bloating
Changes in stools (diarrhoea or constipation)

Question 5

What is NOT a symptom of IBS, and if discovered alongside IBS symptoms, should require thorough investigation?

Answer 5

Blood in stools

Question 6

What are the 5 main differentials of IBS?

Answer 6

Crohn's
UC
Coeliac
Ovarian cancer
GI infection

Question 7

Can ESR and CRP be raised in a patient with IBS?

Answer 7

No

Question 8

What is the tumour marker for ovarian cancer?

Answer 8

CA-125

Question 9

What are the three main lifestyle changes recommended for IBS patients?

Answer 9

Exercise
Manage stress
Keep a food/symptom diary

Question 10

What medical colleague can help you in managing a pt with IBS?

Answer 10

Dietician

Question 11

What can IBS patients take orally that may help symptoms? (not-medication)

Answer 11

Probiotics

Question 12

The 6 that most commonly cause IBS symptoms in the UK are?

Answer 12

Wheat
Rye
Barley
Dairy products
Coffee/tea/coke
Onions

Question 13

What antispasmodics can help IBS patients? (3)

Answer 13

Mebeverine
Hyoscine
Peppermint oil (also helps bloating)

Question 14

What other class of drugs can help IBS pts?

Answer 14

Antidepressants

Question 15

What criteria is used to diagnose IBS?

Answer 15

ROME criteria

Abdo discomfort/pain for >12weeks with 2 of: Releived by defaecation, change in stool frequency, change in stool form

+ 2 of: Urgency, inomplete evacuation, abdo bloating/distension, mucous PR, worsening symptoms after food

Question 16

What is the exclusion criteria for IBS? (5)

Answer 16

>40 years
Bloody stool
Anorexia
Wt Loss
Diarrhoea @ night