Healthcare

Significant correlation exists between mind and body. Recognize the numerous connections and influences between bowel and brain.

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Irritable bowel syndrome — Gut or brain irritation?

Since its founding 20 years ago, the independent non-profit Rome Foundation has promoted scientific education and research to aid in the identification and treatment of Disorders of Gut Brain Interactions (DGBIs). The term “functional” gut disorders has been replaced by “disorders of gut-brain interactions” due to the misconception that “functional” disorders are less real than other disorders.

The misconception of functional gut disorder

Western “organ-oriented” medicine tended to overlook what science now confirms: a significant correlation exists between our mind and our body. When a body part suffers harm, we experience mental strain. However, stress can also cause physical symptoms that are real and not just imagined. It is important to recognize the numerous connections and mutual influences between our bowel and our brain. Thoughts have the power to upset our intestines.

Little was known about the prevalence and distribution of gut-brain interaction diseases worldwide, even though they negatively impact quality of life and have significant financial implications for health care systems. The prestigious medical journal “Gastroenterology” released a global survey conducted by 43 research centers in 2021, which examined the frequency of and risk factors for these gut-brain interaction illnesses in 33 nations across six continents. With almost half of the population reporting these kinds of intestinal illnesses, Egypt was the nation with the highest rate: nearly every second person suffers from them!

If you have IBS, you are not alone.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is among the five most common gut-brain interaction disorders. IBS is frequently stigmatized and misunderstood, with symptoms that significantly impair daily life for both adult and pediatric patients. It is estimated that around one in every 10 people suffers from it. However, many patients go undiagnosed and are unaware that their symptoms imply a medically recognized disorder.: irritable-bowel-syndrome-gut-or-brain-irritation

IBS symptoms include stomach cramping, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. These tend to come and go over time, lasting days, weeks, or even months. IBS is typically a lifelong problem that can be quite frustrating to deal with. Although there is no cure, diet adjustments and medications can often help alleviate symptoms.

What are the causes of IBS? How to diagnose it?

The specific etiology of IBS is unknown, but it occurs more frequently after gastroenteric infections and relates to changes in brain and gut nerve metabolism, the set of bacteria that live in the gut (microbiota), stress, and a family history of IBS. Flare-ups can be triggered by alcohol, caffeine, or spicy or fatty foods.

There is no specific test for IBS, although several tests are required to rule out other potential causes of symptoms, such as inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease.

Find out, what irritates your bowel! Avoid identified triggers!

The more you know about what irritates your gut, the better you can protect it. If symptoms intensify after a specific meal, the culprit items need to be eliminated from the diet. Cooking handmade meals with fresh ingredients allows you to have more control over what is on your plate. Some foods are difficult to digest, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, beans, onions, or dry fruit, and should be avoided. Products containing sorbitol (Light or Zero soft drinks) might exacerbate symptoms, making water a much better option.

If anxiety or stress are triggering the symptoms, behavioral therapy may be recommended. Their goal is not to fully escape stress, but rather to learn effective stress management skills. Psychological support can also help people manage their condition better.

Let us reduce the stigma associated with this condition!
Talk about your health!
Seek medical advice if you experience any symptoms.

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