[Hinews] Irritable bowel syndrome stands as a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder that, though not life-threatening, has grown common among modern populations. It features abdominal pain and shifts in bowel habits, with colonoscopies often showing no clear issues. Diagnosis calls for abdominal pain at least once a week over three months in a six-month span, plus at least two related factors: pain tied to defecation, changes in stool frequency, or variations in stool form.

Surveys show prevalence in South Korea hits 10% to 25%, posing a major public health issue. Sufferers face real disruptions in routine and job performance. The condition breaks into types like constipation-predominant, diarrhea-predominant, mixed, and unclassified, varying widely by person.

Hurdles in Pinpointing Causes and Diagnosis

The root of irritable bowel syndrome stays unclear. Factors include irregular gut motility in the small and large intestines, visceral hypersensitivity, autonomic nervous system problems, and stress or other mental elements. Visceral hypersensitivity means the gut senses react sharply, causing pain from small triggers.
Without biomarkers, diagnosing IBS proves tricky. Ruling out similar conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, or infections matters greatly. Alarm signs—rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, bad nighttime symptoms, bowel changes after 50, or family history—demand a colonoscopy.

Irritable bowel syndrome can be effectively managed through lifestyle habits, dietary adjustments, and stress management. (Clip Art Korea)
Irritable bowel syndrome can be effectively managed through lifestyle habits, dietary adjustments, and stress management. (Clip Art Korea)


Treatment Methods and Daily Management

IBS care starts with non-drug steps, led by diet changes. The low-FODMAP approach draws focus lately. FODMAPs are short-chain carbs not well absorbed in the small intestine, fermented by colon bacteria to produce gas, bloating, and pain. Items like watermelon, apples, milk, and baked beans fall here; limiting them helps.
Handling stress ranks high too, as it affects gut movement and feeling. Seeking calm via meditation, exercise, or hobbies is key.

Drugs depend on symptom type. For diarrhea-predominant IBS, options include antidiarrheals, antispasmodics, and serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Constipation-predominant cases use bulk-forming laxatives, osmotic laxatives, or serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonists. Anticholinergics or antidepressants ease abdominal pain. But meds just ease symptoms and need pairing with habit shifts.

Photo: Kang Min-jeong, Chief of Gastroenterology at Seoul Metropolitan Seonam Hospital
Photo: Kang Min-jeong, Chief of Gastroenterology at Seoul Metropolitan Seonam Hospital


Kang Min-jeong, chief of gastroenterology at Seoul Metropolitan Seonam Hospital, said, “Irritable bowel syndrome varies in symptoms and causes across patients, making tailored treatment vital. Diet and stress control play big roles in easing symptoms.” She added, “If symptoms seem severe or worrisome, see a doctor for right diagnosis and planning.”

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