Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome serious?

Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
Updated on December 05, 2024
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders. It is primarily characterized by abdominal pain accompanied by changes in bowel habits and stool characteristics. The abdominal pain is related to bowel movements and generally improves after defecation. The symptoms are recurrent and tend to linger, showing a chronic pattern. This disease is of a functional nature. There are no organic changes in the body, meaning there are symptoms present but no other physical abnormalities. Thus, while IBS can be uncomfortable, it does not cause significant harm to the body. Probiotics can be used to adjust the gut flora and treat these symptoms, which can lead to some improvements.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Does irritable bowel syndrome cause stomach discomfort?

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome may experience stomach discomfort, as irritable bowel syndrome may be a type of functional dyspepsia. Therefore, patients with functional dyspepsia may experience stomach discomfort, which manifests as bloating, early satiety, belching, acid reflux, heartburn, etc. Once patients experience stomach discomfort, it is recommended to visit the gastroenterology department of a reputable hospital as soon as possible to complete a gastroscopic examination and a carbon-13 breath test, as well as to check for Helicobacter pylori. When necessary, targeted symptomatic treatment should be conducted.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Will carcinoembryonic antigen increase in irritable bowel syndrome?

Generally speaking, patients with irritable bowel syndrome do not experience an increase in carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels. An increase in CEA levels suggests the possibility of adenocarcinoma or precursor lesions of adenocarcinoma, which may not only be present in the intestines but also in the lungs and other tissues. In theory, tumor markers for patients with irritable bowel syndrome should be within the normal range. Once an increase in tumor markers such as carcinoembryonic antigen is observed, it is crucial to be highly vigilant about the possibility of adenocarcinoma, and it is necessary to actively complete related auxiliary tests, such as electronic colonoscopy, abdominal CT, chest CT, among others.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Can people with irritable bowel syndrome eat dragon fruit?

Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can eat dragon fruit. They should consume more fruits that are rich in vitamins and fiber, but they must avoid fruits that are too sour, too sweet, or too spicy. Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome should also eat on a regular schedule and maintain a fresh and clean diet, while eliminating anxiety and nervousness. For patients with IBS, consider using anti-anxiety medications and medications that regulate the gut, such as fluoxetine and mebeverine, cautiously. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Is irritable bowel syndrome just stomach pain that gets better by farting?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is primarily a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and changes in the nature of stools, meaning there are alternations between diarrhea and constipation. A notable feature of the abdominal pain associated with IBS is that it often diminishes after defecation. Therefore, it is not necessarily true that pain relief or disappearance occurs after passing gas; typically, the relief comes after bowel movements, this is a characteristic of the condition. In cases of abdominal pain, symptomatic treatment can be applied, for instance, using pain relief medications. If diarrhea is present, anti-diarrheal medications, such as smectite powder, may be used. For constipation, medications that help facilitate bowel movements can be administered. Regular intake of probiotics to adjust the gut flora can also effectively treat this condition.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Can people with irritable bowel syndrome eat pomegranates?

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome can eat pomegranates. Patients should consume more fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and fiber, and pomegranates are included in this category and are safe to eat. However, patients with irritable bowel syndrome should avoid spicy and stimulating foods, as well as foods that are overly acidic, overly spicy, overly salty, overly hot, and rough. Pomegranates do not fall into these categories, so patients with irritable bowel syndrome can eat them normally, but they should not overindulge or eat too much, and should consume them in moderation.