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What are the causes of IBS?
Various causes are known to cause IBS, but no one knows the exact cause yet.
Studies have shown that it occurs when your colon gets disturbed or hypersensitive and causes slow rhythmic movements. Consequently, it causes constipation or diarrhea. Many experts also claim that the leading cause of IBS is due to the weak muscles of the colon. When the colon doesn’t squeeze like it usually should, it affects stool movement and hence causes IBS.
According to many other theories, it is suggested that many different chemicals cause IBS in your body like gastrin and serotonin. These chemicals are responsible for controlling the nerve signals between the digestive tract and the brain. When these chemicals reach an abnormal level, they start affecting bowel movements that result in IBS. Many others claim that the bacteria present in the bowels is responsible for this condition. This bacterium, known as “microflora,” comes under the category of “good bacteria” and it resides in the intestines. Changes in this bacterium result in IBS.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is pretty common in women than men due to which many experts also believe that hormones are responsible for causing IBS. Moreover, mild celiac disease is also considered as a leading cause of IBS because it damages the intestines.
Other factors that are known to cause IBS are:
- Muscle contractions
Our intestine walls contain layers of muscles. These muscles are responsible for the movement of food as it moves down through the digestive tract. When contractions of these muscles become stronger, it can cause gas, diarrhea, and bloating. Likewise, when these contractions become weak, it can slow down the movement of food, which can result in dry and hard stools.
- Inflammation in the colon and intestines
When the immune-system cells increase in your organs, it can cause inflammation in the intestines and colon. This inflammation can result in IBS.
- Infection
IBS can also develop due to a disease caused by a virus or bacteria.
What triggers IBS?
The following factors can trigger IBS:
- Food plays a significant role in triggering the symptoms of IBS. Many people are allergic to certain foods and drinks such as dairy products, cabbage, wheat, and carbonated beverages. The intake of these foods can trigger IBS.
- People suffering from severe stress can also experience IBS as stress can worsen the condition.
- Hormones also play a crucial role in triggering IBS. That is why many women experience it during their menstrual cycles.
The struggles of IBS:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome can affect the quality of your life and can even cause hindrance in your personal life and relationships. Following are the most common struggles faced by IBS patients:
- Many people who are suffering from this disorder claim to have a poor quality of life. It doesn’t only affect their work-life but also their personal and sexual life.
- People suffering from IBS can also experience severe mood disorders, along with depression and anxiety. When this happens, IBS becomes even worse.
Conclusion:
Getting rid of stress can help in preventing IBS. The patients should learn to change their lifestyles and engage in relaxing activities. Seeking help from a counselor can also help to relieve the symptoms. Many muscles, relaxing exercises are to help you. Moreover, mindfulness training and stress-reduction techniques can also help cope with this condition.