Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Question 1

More common in men or women?

Answer 1

Women

Question 2

Risk factors for IBS (3)

Answer 2

1. Infection (IBS-PI)
2. Stress/anxiety/depression
3. Antibiotic use

Question 3

IBS diagnostic criteria (3)

Answer 3

Recurrent abdominal pain/discomfort for at least 3 days per month for the last 3 months, associated with two or more of the following symptoms:

1. Pain relieved by defecation
2. Onset of pain associated with change in bowel frequency
3. Onset of of pain associated with change in stool appearance

Question 4

Investigations (rule out other causes) (7)

Answer 4

1. FBE
2. Coeliac serology
3. TFTs
4. Stool culture
5. Endoscopy
6. Hydrogen breath testing
7. Urea breath test

Question 5

Management of IBS (3)

Answer 5

1. Increase fibre and probiotics
2. Stress/psych management
3. Medications: hyoscine, mebeverine, antidepressants