Alcohol and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a painful disorder of the the large intestine (colon). In this disorder, the intestine loses its ability to function properly. However, the structure of the intestine looks normal when observed under a microscope. During this condition, food either moves too slowly or too fast through the intestines. When the contents inside the intestine move slowly, it often leads to constipation. When the movement inside the intestine is fast, the intestine is unable to absorb any fluids. As a result, too much fluid is found in the stool (diarrhea).

Consumption of alcohol, milk products, carbonated drinks and fatty foods can worsen symptoms of IBS. People diagnosed with IBS especially, should not drink alcohol as it is a GI (gastrointestinal) irritant. Alcohol is a major factor responsible for worsening of IBS symptoms. Alcoholic drinks such as wine or beer pose a threat for IBS patients. Complications may develop if drinking is continued and may even trigger an IBS attack. Stress that includes feeling mentally tense, angry or troubled can aggravate the condition of IBS patients. This is because stress may stimulate colon muscles causing abdominal discomfort.

IBS, also known as functional bowel syndrome, is diagnosed more in women than men. Although, IBS causes pain and discomfort, the disease does not permanently damage the intestine. People suffering from IBS have problems with their bowel movement, but they do not show any signs of intestinal bleeding. Normal movement in the large intestine is not present which causes a lot of distress. 20 percent of adult population in United States show symptoms of IBS. In rare cases, IBS disrupts the normal routine of the affected people. They experience pain while walking and cannot travel short distances. A recent study shows that IBS starts before the age of 35, in around 50 percent of the people.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Common symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain and discomfort, while eliminating stools. In some cases, symptoms subside and return back after a few months; while, in other cases, symptoms worsen over time. Even if people are suffering from this disorder, they are not comfortable discussing the problem as the signs and symptoms of IBS are quite embarrassing. They are as follows:

• Cramps during bowel movement.
• Diarrhea
• Bloating (swelling of the abdomen)
• Constipation or infrequent bowel movements.
• Stools look different; they are either ribbony or watery and may contain mucus.
• Uncontrollable urgency to go to the toilet several times, especially after lunch and breakfast.

Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Doctors are still not able to trace the causes of this disease. Researchers believe that a bacterial infection in the intestinal tract may lead to IBS. If the intestine is sensitive to certain foods, it can cause damage to the colon giving rise to IBS. A weakened immune system vulnerable to viral infections may cause irritable bowel syndrome.

Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The doctors may perform stool sample tests to diagnose this disease. IBS can also be diagnosed on the basis of symptoms, like how often the person experiences abdominal pain and how the stool consistency has changed. Another method is colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy that allows the doctor to get the images of the large intestine. As these images give an inside view of the colon, a correct diagnosis is possible.

Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Medications can relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome considerably. The doctors may advice patients to include fiber supplements in their diet. Medicines like loperamide or lomotil are often prescribed to decrease constipation. Doctors often suggest an antispasmodic to reduce abdominal pain and control intestine muscle spasms. People who do not respond to conventional therapy are treated with alosetron hydrochloride (Lotronex). This medicine is specifically recommended for people with severe IBS.

Few changes in lifestyle and diet can keep the symptoms of IBS under control. Follow a healthy diet, a stress management program and avoid problem foods. Regular exercise can help to relieve stress and stimulate normal contractions of the large intestine.