Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome treatment

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine, leading to a range of uncomfortable digestive symptoms. It’s a functional condition, meaning there’s no visible damage to the digestive tract, but the system doesn’t work as it should. IBS is common, long-lasting and can significantly impact quality of life.

What causes IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) ?

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to the condition:

  • Abnormal muscle contractions in the intestine
  • Gut-brain axis miscommunication
  • Increased sensitivity to pain in the digestive tract
  • Imbalance in gut bacteria (dysbiosis)
  • History of intestinal infections or food poisoning
  • Stress, anxiety or mental health issues
  • Hormonal fluctuations (especially in women)

What are the symptoms of IBS?

IBS symptoms vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Common signs include:

  • Abdominal pain or cramping, often relieved after a bowel movement
  • Bloating and excessive gas
  • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation or alternating between both)
  • Urgency to pass stool or a feeling of incomplete evacuation
  • Mucus in stool
  • Fatigue and disturbed sleep (in some cases)

How is IBS diagnosed?

There’s no single test to diagnose IBS. Instead, doctors rely on a combination of:

  • Medical history and symptom review
  • Physical examination
  • Rome IV criteria (standardized diagnostic guidelines for IBS)
  • Exclusion of other conditions through tests like blood tests, stool analysis or colonoscopy (if needed)

How can IBS be treated?

Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Adopting a low FODMAP diet (avoiding fermentable sugars and carbs)
  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals
  • Staying hydrated
  • Reducing caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods
  • Keeping a food diary to identify personal triggers

Medications used to treat IBS

  • Antispasmodics to relieve abdominal cramping
  • Laxatives for constipation-predominant IBS
  • Anti-diarrheal medications for diarrhea-predominant IBS
  • Gut-targeted antibiotics
  • Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications (for gut-brain axis regulation)

Is ayurvedic treatment effective for IBS?

Yes. Ayurveda views IBS as a disorder of Agni (digestive fire) and dosha imbalance, often classified as Grahani. Ayurvedic treatment focuses on:

  • Panchakarma therapies (e.g., Virechana) for detoxification
  • Herbal formulations like Kutaj, Bilva and Musta
  • Digestive tonics to strengthen metabolism
  • Diet and lifestyle changes based on individual body constitution (Prakriti)

Ayurvedic care offers a holistic approach with fewer side effects and focuses on long-term digestive balance.