Medical Conditions for Which Stool Softeners
May be Recommended: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)1
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder characterized most commonly
by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. IBS
causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it does not
permanently harm the intestines and does not lead to a serious disease,
such as cancer. Most people can control their symptoms with diet, stress
management, and prescribed medications. For some people, however, IBS
can be disabling. They may be unable to work, attend social events, or
even travel short distances.
As many as 20 percent of the adult population, or one in five Americans,
have symptoms of IBS, making it one of the most common disorders diagnosed
by doctors. It occurs more often in women than in men, and it begins before
the age of 35 in about 50 percent of people.
Abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort are the main symptoms of IBS.
However, symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people have
constipation, which means hard, difficult-to-pass, or infrequent bowel
movements.
Often these people report straining and cramping when trying to have a
bowel movement but cannot eliminate any stool, or they are able to eliminate
only a small amount. If they are able to have a bowel movement, there may be
mucus in it, which is a fluid that moistens and protects passages in the
digestive system.
Some people with IBS experience diarrhea, which is frequent, loose,
watery, stools. Other people with IBS alternate between constipation and
diarrhea. Sometimes people find that their symptoms subside for a few months
and then return, while others report a constant worsening of symptoms over
time.
If you think you have IBS, seeing your doctor is the first step. IBS is
generally diagnosed on the basis of a complete medical history that includes
a careful description of symptoms and a physical examination. There is no
specific test for IBS, although diagnostic tests may be performed to rule
out other problems.
Unfortunately, many people suffer from IBS for a long time before seeking
medical treatment. Up to 70 percent of people suffering from IBS are not
receiving medical care for their symptoms. No cure has been found for IBS,
but many options are available to treat the symptoms.
Medications are an important part of relieving symptoms. Your doctor may
suggest fiber supplements or laxatives for constipation or medicines to
decrease diarrhea. An antispasmodic is commonly prescribed, which helps to
control colon muscle spasms and reduce abdominal pain.
Your doctor will give you the best treatments for your particular symptoms
and encourage you to manage stress and make changes to your diet. Your
doctor should be consulted before taking any medication.
Ask your doctor before use of a laxative if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting.
References
- National Institutes of Health. National Digestive Diseases
Information Clearinghouse. NIH Publication No. 07693 September 2007.
Available at :
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/ibs/index.htm