Recent surveys indicate that IBS affects between 10% and 25% of the population in South Korea, making it a significant public health concern. The condition often disrupts daily routines and impairs work productivity. IBS is categorized into several subtypes: constipation-predominant (IBS-C), diarrhea-predominant (IBS-D), mixed (IBS-M), and unclassified (IBS-U), with symptoms varying greatly among individuals.
Hurdles in Pinpointing Causes and Diagnosis
The exact cause of IBS remains unclear. Contributing factors may include irregular motility of the small and large intestines, visceral hypersensitivity (heightened sensitivity to gut stimuli), dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, and psychological factors such as stress and anxiety. In individuals with visceral hypersensitivity, even minor stimuli can trigger significant abdominal discomfort.
Because there are no definitive biomarkers, diagnosing IBS can be challenging and often involves excluding other gastrointestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer, and infections. Red flag symptoms—including rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, persistent nighttime symptoms, changes in bowel habits after age 50, or a family history of gastrointestinal disease—warrant further evaluation through colonoscopy.
Treatment Methods and Daily Management
Initial IBS management often begins with non-pharmacological approaches, particularly dietary modifications. One widely recommended method is the low-FODMAP diet. FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and are rapidly fermented by gut bacteria, leading to gas production, bloating, and discomfort. Common FODMAP-rich foods include watermelon, apples, dairy products, and legumes such as baked beans. Reducing these in the diet can alleviate symptoms in many patients.
Managing stress is also critical, as psychological factors can significantly influence gastrointestinal motility and visceral sensitivity. Techniques such as meditation, regular physical activity, and engaging in relaxing hobbies can help reduce symptom severity.
Pharmacological treatments are selected based on symptom presentation. For IBS-D, therapeutic options may include antidiarrheal agents, antispasmodics, and serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. In IBS-C, bulk-forming or osmotic laxatives and serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonists may be prescribed. Anticholinergics and low-dose antidepressants are also used to relieve abdominal pain. However, medications primarily address symptoms and should be complemented with long-term lifestyle modifications.
Dr. Min-jeong Kang, Chief of Gastroenterology at Seoul Metropolitan Seonam Hospital, emphasized, "IBS presents differently in each patient, so individualized treatment is essential. Dietary control and stress management play major roles in symptom relief." She added, "If symptoms are severe or persistent, consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan."
Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
