What is the Connection Between IBS and Abdominal Pain?

The main connection between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and abdominal pain is that IBS can cause severe or long lasting discomfort. Most sufferers of IBS complain of chronic problems like bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion. These things can cause considerable stomach pain which may require treatment.

IBS and abdominal pain generally go hand in hand, as an irritable bowel is usually only diagnosed when chronic pain and gastrointestinal upset are present. The condition is characterized by intense pain accompanied by frequent or constant stomach upset and digestive problems. These can involve constipation, diarrhea, or an alternating pattern of both. Pain is often said to move from one location to the other and often occurs on a daily basis, although eating certain foods may exacerbate symptoms.

Patients may describe IBS and abdominal pain as a bloated feeling, stabbing pains, or a dull ache in the lower portion of the abdomen. Irritable bowel syndrome is often a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning that is it assigned only once other possible causes for pain and discomfort have been ruled out. Researchers do not know exactly what causes IBS, although it is thought that inflammation of the small or large intestines may play a role.

Treatments for IBS and abdominal pain generally include a special diet which limits foods that are known to cause problems. These may be discovered by limiting the number of foods eaten for a few days and then slowly introducing items back into the diet to discover which ones cause symptoms to flare up. Common irritants include dairy products, high sulfur vegetables like broccoli, and foods that are high in fiber. Since fiber is important for good health, foods containing large amounts of it should be introduced into the diet slowly, or supplements should be taken daily.

Herbal teas may also help to calm IBS and abdominal pain, primarily varieties which are known to settle the stomach and promote healthy digestion. Examples are peppermint, chamomile, and ginger based options. Applying heat to the stomach during symptoms or taking over the counter medications may also be beneficial. Exercising daily can also speed and improve digestion, leading to fewer symptoms.

If these treatments do not help, there are prescription medications available to treat IBS related pain. Symptoms are generally required to be chronic and unrelated to another condition or medication. Prescriptions are usually most effective when used in combination with other methods like diet and exercise.