Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Your Symptoms and Concerns

Q: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Your Symptoms and Concerns

Hello： If issues related to the organs themselves or dietary causes can be ruled out, then recurrent and regular episodes can be classified as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-Shun.

Hello, I would like to ask if I have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Hello, I would like to ask if I have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
When I was about 24 years old, I traveled abroad and may have been too stressed.
While there, I overindulged in food and experienced gastrointestinal bleeding (I was eating until I was overly full every day, which led to black stools at that time).
Because I was alone and anxious abroad, I suddenly developed symptoms similar to IBS upon returning home, such as mucus in my stool, diarrhea, and pellet-like stools (the black stools were no longer present).
I then visited Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, where no tests were conducted.
The doctor pressed on my abdomen and asked if it hurt, then directly diagnosed me with IBS and prescribed medication.
I went home, and now it has been 9 years.
My weight has increased from 84 kg to 92 kg (last year it peaked at 96 kg; I am currently intentionally dieting to lose weight, but due to my large appetite, it has been difficult to see any significant decrease).
My sleep is not affected by gastrointestinal discomfort, and I feel completely fine when I wake up.
However, while awake, I can feel a tight sensation in the lower left abdomen near the hip bone, which sometimes disappears (but I mostly feel it).
In the beginning, I experienced alternating pellet-like stools and diarrhea, but now I mostly have diarrhea (I drink lattes daily and eat large amounts of oatmeal), or I have smaller, flatter stools.
Occasionally, I have normal cylindrical stools about 3 cm in diameter (which appear less frequently, possibly due to accumulated amounts over the weekend; usually, I don't need to use the restroom on weekends, but I do during work hours when I am active).
There is often mucus, and I frequently pass gas.
My stools are generally a clay-yellow color.
About 5 years ago, I went to the hospital for a fecal occult blood test, which was normal.
In the past couple of years, I have purchased fecal occult blood test strips to use at home (all results have been normal).
In 2014, I had a health check-up (I am due for another check-up this year and am unsure if I should pay for it out of pocket).
The results for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) were 0.84 ng/mL, CA 19-9 was 5.3 U/mL, and CA 72-4 was 1.13.
What is the likelihood that this is IBS?

Niu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/11

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If issues related to the organs themselves or dietary causes can be ruled out, then recurrent and regular episodes can be classified as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/04/11

More Info

Based on the symptoms you've described, it does seem likely that you may be experiencing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by a combination of abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, which can include diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both. The fact that you have experienced symptoms such as mucus in your stool, changes in stool consistency (like the "sheep-like" stools and diarrhea), and abdominal discomfort aligns with the typical presentation of IBS.

Your history of gastrointestinal distress, particularly following a stressful event and dietary changes, is also significant. Stress and anxiety are known triggers for IBS symptoms, and it’s not uncommon for individuals to develop IBS after a stressful experience, such as your trip abroad. The fact that you have had episodes of black stools in the past, which indicated gastrointestinal bleeding, is concerning; however, since you mentioned that this has resolved and subsequent tests have shown normal results, it seems that you may have moved past that acute issue.

The Rome IV criteria for diagnosing IBS require that you have experienced abdominal pain on average at least one day per week in the last three months, associated with two or more of the following: related to defecation, associated with a change in frequency of stool, or associated with a change in form (appearance) of stool. Given your symptoms of abdominal discomfort, frequent bowel movements, and changes in stool consistency, you may meet these criteria.

It's also important to note that while IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other potential causes of your symptoms should be ruled out, your previous tests for blood in the stool and tumor markers appear to be normal, which is reassuring. However, if you continue to experience significant changes in your bowel habits, weight fluctuations, or if new symptoms arise, it would be wise to consult with a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.

In terms of management, lifestyle and dietary modifications can be quite beneficial for IBS. Here are some recommendations:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential food triggers. Common triggers include dairy, gluten, high-fat foods, and certain carbohydrates known as FODMAPs. A low-FODMAP diet has been shown to help many individuals with IBS.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea. This can help prevent dehydration.

3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help regulate bowel function and reduce stress, which may alleviate some of your symptoms.

4. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms, incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive-behavioral therapy may be beneficial.

5. Medications: Depending on your specific symptoms, medications such as antispasmodics, laxatives, or anti-diarrheal agents may be prescribed by your doctor.

6. Probiotics: Some individuals find relief from IBS symptoms with the use of probiotics, which can help balance gut bacteria.

7. Regular Follow-ups: Since you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

In conclusion, while your symptoms do suggest IBS, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, especially if you notice any new or worsening symptoms. Regular monitoring and a tailored approach to managing your symptoms can significantly improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by a group of symptoms that typically include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation. The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combin...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello everyone: The causes of this condition are often due to poor gastrointestinal motility (either too fast or too slow), which can be attributed to factors such as autonomic nervous system dysfunction, hence it is commonly referred to as dyspepsia. Symptoms may include either ...

Effective Strategies for Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and excessive gas for the past five years, which has been persistent. After researching, I suspect I have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). However, when I consulted a doctor two weeks ago for a rubber band ligation p...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: To diagnose irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is essential to first rule out any issues with the colon, such as colitis or tumors. Whether a colonoscopy is necessary will depend on your clinical situation. However, a key criterion for IBS is that symptoms must occur regul...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

What symptoms might indicate gastrointestinal issues? I find that every time I eat, I immediately feel the urge to use the restroom, and it's always diarrhea. I usually eat more than average, yet I don't gain weight; it feels like what I consume isn't being absorbe...

Dr. Su Baojia reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Your symptoms are more indicative of allergic colitis, commonly known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). You may want to schedule a colonoscopy for further evaluation.

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Hello, doctor. Recently, I often feel that my bowel movements are incomplete. There is no blood in my stool, and I don't experience abdominal bloating, but sometimes my stomach makes gurgling noises. I have already visited a nearby gastroenterology clinic, and the doctor dia...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Mr./Ms. L, based on the symptoms you described, it is indeed possible that you are experiencing irritable bowel syndrome. However, a small portion of cases may involve inflammatory bowel disease. If adjustments to your medication and lifestyle (such as increasing exercise, ...