Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits in the absence of any organic cause, is the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal condition and accounts for approximately 30 percent of all referrals to gastroenterologists. Pathophysiology of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Although the pathophysiology of IBS remains uncertain, it is viewed as a disorder resulting from an interaction among several factors. The traditional focus has been on alterations in gastrointestinal motility and on visceral hypersensitivity.
More recent studies have considered the role of inflammation, alterations in fecal flora, bacterial overgrowth, food sensitivity and a probable genetic predisposition. Treatment of IBS includes dietary modification, psychotherapies, and medications. Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome…
