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Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Disease Details

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Description: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or both.
Type: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder. It is not typically considered a genetically transmitted disease, as its exact cause is unknown and likely multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some studies suggest a possible genetic predisposition, as IBS can run in families, but no specific pattern of genetic transmission has been established.
Signs And Symptoms: The primary symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain or discomfort in association with frequent diarrhea or constipation and a change in bowel habits. Symptoms usually are experienced as acute attacks that subside within one day, but recurrent attacks are likely. There may also be urgency for bowel movements, a feeling of incomplete evacuation (tenesmus) or bloating. In some cases, the symptoms are relieved by bowel movements. People with IBS, more commonly than others, have gastroesophageal reflux, symptoms relating to the genitourinary system, fibromyalgia, headache, backache, and psychiatric symptoms such as depression and anxiety. About a third of adults who have IBS also report sexual dysfunction, typically in the form of a reduction in libido.
Prognosis: The prognosis for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) varies among individuals. It is a chronic condition that can significantly impact the quality of life, but it does not cause permanent damage to the intestines or lead to more serious diseases like cancer. Many people with IBS can manage their symptoms effectively through dietary changes, stress management, and medications, allowing them to lead relatively normal lives. However, symptoms may persist or fluctuate over time. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is often necessary to adjust treatment plans as needed.
Onset: Onset:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) often develops in late adolescence or early adulthood. Symptoms can begin following a gastrointestinal infection, stressful life event, or gradually over time with no clear trigger.

Nan:
In this context, "nan" is unclear. If it refers to a nutritional component or specific treatment, please provide additional details for a more targeted response.
Prevalence: The prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is estimated to be around 10-15% of the global population. It affects women more commonly than men and can occur at any age, although it often begins in adolescence or early adulthood.
Epidemiology: The prevalence of IBS varies by country and by age range examined. The bar graph at right shows the percentage of the population reporting symptoms of IBS in studies from various geographic regions (see table below for references). The following table contains a list of studies performed in different countries that measured the prevalence of IBS and IBS-like symptoms:
Intractability: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is not considered intractable. While it can significantly affect quality of life, it is generally manageable through a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, stress management, and medications. The symptoms can be persistent and challenging for some individuals, but effective treatment strategies often lead to substantial improvement.
Disease Severity: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) varies in severity from mild to severe. It can significantly impact quality of life, but does not lead to serious diseases such as cancer.
Healthcare Professionals: Disease Ontology ID - DOID:9778
Pathophysiology: The exact pathophysiology of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is not fully understood, but it involves a combination of the following factors:

1. **Gut-Brain Axis Dysfunction:** Abnormal communication between the central nervous system (brain) and the enteric nervous system (gut) can lead to altered bowel function.
2. **Motility Abnormalities:** Irregular or abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines can cause the symptoms of IBS, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both.
3. **Visceral Hypersensitivity:** Enhanced sensitivity of the gastrointestinal tract to stimuli, such as stretching or contraction, can cause pain and discomfort.
4. **Inflammation:** Low-grade inflammation or immune system activation in the gut may contribute to IBS symptoms.
5. **Microbiota Imbalance:** An imbalance in the gut microbiome may affect the gastrointestinal environment and influence IBS.
6. **Genetic and Environmental Factors:** Genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, like stress or food intolerances, may play a role in the development and exacerbation of IBS symptoms.

IBS is a complex disorder, and its pathophysiology likely involves an interplay of multiple pathways rather than a single cause.
Carrier Status: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It is not a disease caused by pathogens or genetic factors that can be "carried" and transmitted to others. Hence, there is no concept of "carrier status" for IBS.
Mechanism: Genetic, environmental, and psychological factors seem to be important in the development of IBS. Studies have shown that IBS has a genetic component even though there is a predominant influence of environmental factors.Dysregulated brain-gut axis, abnormal serotonin/5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) metabolism, and high density of mucosal nerve fibers in the intestines have been implicated in the mechanisms of IBS. A number of 5-HT receptor subtypes were involved in the IBS symptoms, including 5-HT3, 5-HT4, and 5-HT7 receptors. High levels of 5-HT7 receptor-expressing mucosal nerve fibers were observed in the colon of IBS patients. A role of 5-HT7 receptor in intestinal hyperalgesia was demonstrated in mouse models with visceral hypersensitivity, of which a novel 5-HT7 receptor antagonist administered by mouth reduced intestinal pain levels.There is evidence that abnormalities occur in the gut flora of individuals who have IBS, such as reduced diversity, a decrease in bacteria belonging to the phylum Bacteroidota, and an increase in those belonging to the phylum Bacillota. The changes in gut flora are most profound in individuals who have diarrhoea-predominant IBS. Antibodies against common components (namely flagellin) of the commensal gut flora are a common occurrence in IBS affected individuals.Chronic low-grade inflammation commonly occurs in IBS affected individuals with abnormalities found including increased enterochromaffin cells, intraepithelial lymphocytes, and mast cells resulting in chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the gut mucosa. IBS has been reported in greater quantities in multigenerational families with IBS than in the regular population. It is believed that psychological stress can induce increased inflammation and thereby cause IBS to develop in predisposed individuals.
Treatment: Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) typically includes:

1. **Dietary Changes**:
- Eating a high-fiber diet or taking fiber supplements.
- Avoiding trigger foods such as caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods.
- Following a low FODMAP diet, which reduces fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides, and polyols.

2. **Medications**:
- Antispasmodic medications to reduce bowel spasms.
- Laxatives for constipation-predominant IBS.
- Antidiarrheal medications for diarrhea-predominant IBS.
- Low-dose antidepressants to manage pain and bowel symptoms.

3. **Probiotics**:
- Taking probiotic supplements to help maintain gut health.

4. **Lifestyle Modifications**:
- Regular physical activity.
- Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

5. **Regular Medical Reviews**:
- Ongoing consultations with healthcare providers to monitor and adjust treatment as necessary.
Compassionate Use Treatment: For irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), there is ongoing research into various off-label or experimental treatments. Here are some examples:

1. **Rifaximin:** Though primarily approved for treating travelers' diarrhea and hepatic encephalopathy, it is used off-label for IBS, particularly IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D).

2. **Eluxadoline:** In clinical trials and used off-label for IBS-D, it works as a mixed opioid receptor modulator.

3. **Probiotics:** Certain strains of probiotics are being explored for their potential benefits in managing IBS symptoms.

4. **Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN):** Used experimentally for its potential anti-inflammatory effects.

5. **Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT):** Though primarily used for Clostridium difficile infection, FMT is being investigated for its effects on IBS.

6. **Cannabinoid-Based Treatments:** Experimental use of cannabinoids like CBD and THC is being studied for their pain-relieving properties.

It's important to consult healthcare providers for personalized medical advice and to discuss the potential benefits and risks of these treatments.
Lifestyle Recommendations: For irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), here are some lifestyle recommendations:

1. **Dietary Adjustments**:
- Consider a low FODMAP diet, which involves avoiding foods that are difficult for some people to digest.
- Eat smaller, frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Increase fiber intake gradually to help regulate bowel movements, particularly if constipation is a symptom.

2. **Hydration**:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help with digestion.

3. **Stress Management**:
- Engage in regular physical activity like walking, swimming, or yoga.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness.
- Consider stress-reducing therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

4. **Regular Sleep Patterns**:
- Aim for consistent sleep by going to bed and waking up at the same times every day.
- Ensure a comfortable and quiet sleeping environment.

5. **Avoid Trigger Foods and Beverages**:
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods as they can exacerbate symptoms.
- Monitor and possibly avoid foods that trigger symptoms, such as dairy or fried foods.

6. **Probiotics**:
- Some people find relief by adding probiotics to their diet, either through supplements or foods like yogurt.

7. **Limit Use of Laxatives and Anti-diarrheal Medications**:
- Use these medications cautiously and only under the guidance of a healthcare provider, to avoid dependency or worsening symptoms.

8. **Record Keeping**:
- Maintain a food and symptom diary to identify potential triggers and track the effectiveness of dietary and lifestyle changes.

Implementing these lifestyle changes can help manage and alleviate the symptoms of IBS. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Medication: Medications that may be useful include antispasmodics such as dicyclomine and antidepressants. Both H1-antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers have shown efficacy in reducing pain associated with visceral hypersensitivity in IBS.
Repurposable Drugs: For irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), several repurposable drugs have shown potential in managing symptoms:

1. **Antidepressants**:
- *Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)*: such as amitriptyline and imipramine.
- *Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)*: such as fluoxetine and sertraline.

2. **Antibiotics**:
- *Rifaximin*: particularly for IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D).

3. **Antispasmodics**:
- *Hyoscyamine*: helps reduce intestinal muscle spasms.
- *Dicyclomine*: provides relief from muscle spasms in the digestive tract.

4. **Bile acid sequestrants**:
- *Cholestyramine*: often used for IBS-D.

5. **Probiotics**:
- While not drugs, certain probiotic formulations may alleviate symptoms.

Nan application or nanotechnology is less commonly referenced directly for IBS. However, emerging research may explore the use of nanotechnology in targeted drug delivery systems and diagnostic tools for gastrointestinal disorders.
Metabolites: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) does not yet have a definitive metabolic biomarker. Research is ongoing to identify specific metabolites associated with IBS. Studies have shown that there might be differences in the metabolic profiles of people with IBS compared to healthy individuals, particularly in gut microbiota-derived metabolites, bile acids, and short-chain fatty acids. However, no specific metabolite has been universally accepted for diagnosing or monitoring IBS.
Nutraceuticals: Nutraceuticals for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can include probiotics, prebiotics, fiber supplements, and certain herbs like peppermint oil. These substances are used to help manage symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea by promoting healthy gut flora, improving bowel regularity, and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort.
Peptides: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. Peptides, which are short chains of amino acids, play a role in gut function and signaling. Specific peptides, such as corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and substance P, have been implicated in the mechanisms underlying IBS by influencing gut motility, permeability, and sensitivity.

"Nan" is not directly related to IBS or peptides. It might be an abbreviation or typo, so more context is needed to provide accurate information regarding that term.