$Unique_ID{BRK00183}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is "Irritable Bowel Syndrome" Life-Threatening?}
$Subject{IBS bowels irritable bowel syndrome syndromes stress treatment
Digestive System gastroenterologist depression constipation diarrhea fiber
diet gastrointestinal intestine intestines IBD}
$Volume{I-12}
$Log{
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome*0008401.scf
Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome*0008402.scf
Controlling Irritable Bowel Syndrome*0008403.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is "Irritable Bowel Syndrome" Life-Threatening?


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QUESTION:  I've been having abdominal pain for months and months now.  My
gynecologist has run dozens of tests and has found nothing wrong.  He's just
sent me to a gastroenterologist who tells me he suspects "irritable bowel
syndrome."  Please tell me about this.  Is it life-threatening?

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ANSWER:  Irritable bowel syndrome is uncomfortable, painful and can produce
stress and depression, but it is not related to cancer and is not a fatal
condition.
     The classic symptom of IBS is a change in bowel habits.  At least half of
all IBS patients complain of constipation.  Others suffer from constipation
alternating with diarrhea.
     In most cases, some of the pain eases up after a bowel movement.  The
discomfort may once again be noticeable 30 minutes to an hour after eating.
As many as 60 percent of IBS patients may suffer from frequent headaches and
some may have urinary problems.
     Management of IBS includes adopting a high fiber diet.  Your doctor will
have to look into what medications you might be taking that could exacerbate
your pain.  Cutting down on or cutting out coffee, tea and sodas may help
lessen the frequency of the diarrhea.
     Also, it is very important for those afflicted with IBS to learn how to
relax, and to cut down on the stressers in their lives.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.