Glossary On Causes

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of those diseases whose exact cause continues to evade the medical fraternity even today. A large number of factors work in a complex combination to trigger the onset of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in a given case. Some of these factors include:

• Stress
• Disorders of the immune system
• Hormones
• Hereditary
• Problem with the functioning of the nerves that supply the gut (intestines)

The result of the above interplay of factors is that there are abnormal contractions of the muscle of the intestines. In cases where the contractions are abnormally fast, the patient may experience diarrhea. On the other hand, where the contractions become slower than normal, the patient ends up with constipation and bloating. Even the gas that is formed in the intestines tends to be retained longer than usual in IBS patients giving rise to sensation of bloating and abdominal heaviness.

Triggers of episodes:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) tends to episodic in many cases where there are periods during which the disease worsens. These episodes tend to be triggered by any or all of the following:

• Certain foods: Milk and milk products, chocolates, tea, coffee, colas, alcohol, etc. often trigger complaints. Bloating and gases may be triggered by the intake of certain vegetables, fruits and carbonated drinks.
• Large meals at any given time can significantly worsen complaints.
• Hormonal changes - Complaints may worsen during periods of hormonal changes such as before, during or after menstruation in women.
• Psychological stress - It is not uncommon for complaints to get worse during periods of stress in irritable bowel syndrome patients.
• Other disease conditions: An acute infection of the intestines (such as infectious diarrhea) can trigger irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.
• Conventional medicines: Certain drugs used in conventional treatment such as antibiotics, steroids, anti-inflammatory medicines, etc. can worsen IBS symptoms.

No matter what the cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), this condition can be safely, gently and effectively treated with Homeopathy.