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Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome Make You Hungry?
We wish our readers a very happy Christmas and holiday season, and a peaceful – and healthy – 2008.
Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a chronic intestinal condition where patients most likely show the symptoms of abdominal pain, cramping, flatulence and episodes of diarrhea, constipation or both. The disorder is the most common type gastrointestinal condition in the US, and diet plays an important role in easing the condition and reducing the presented symptoms. Which leads us to the question - Does irritable bowel syndrome make you hungry?
Irritable bowel syndrome can only be diagnosed once it is clear that there is no other medical condition causing the symptoms. There are a number of conditions that display the same or similar signs as irritable bowl syndrome and some of these are severe and will require more immediate attention.
A full diagnosis covers the patient’s medical history, the symptoms they have and when they are normally prevalent. It is likely to involve a stool sample being tested for pre conditions, and sometimes an internal exam to monitor the way that the intestines function.
IBS is known as a functional disorder, as it effects the way that the intestines work. It does not cause damage to the colon, and is not a progressive condition. Sometimes the symptoms can be relieved for a period and then return.
It is likely that everyone will suffer some of the symptoms of IBS now and again, however, it is when it becomes either a regular occurrence, or continues over a protracted period of time that it is considered as IBS and will be treated.
The symptoms of IBS are stomach pains and cramps, which are usually relieved after defecation.
No single cause of IBS has been identified, but it is known that there are certain trigger factors that can increase the risk of IBS, including a poor diet, stress, and a parasite infection.
IBS symptoms are caused because the colon is hypersensitive and the mobility (movement, including regularity and strength of the contractions) are effected and are abnormal.
One theory about the cause if IBS is that there is a miscommunication between the brain and the gut. Many people do not realise that there are more nerve endings in the stomach than there are in the spine, and that the majority of the serotonin which is produced by the body, is produced in the digestive tract.
This is one of the reasons that it is speculated that stress and anxiety has such a large role to play in IBS symptoms. In fact, in a study carried out that checked the psychological state of IBS sufferer’s it was found that 60% of them had at least one psychological disorder, including anxiety or depression.
However, it is not clear whether the IBS was bought on by the psychological disorder, or if IBS just worsens or triggers the psychological condition. Either way, it is an important finding that has allowed for new treatments to be devised that help with the mental state of the patient.
Stress and anxiety has a two-fold impact on the host, it can either suppress hunger, or it can increase hunger. If the “fight or flight” reaction is triggered, then normally the hormones released at this time will trigger blood to move from less critical systems and organs in the body, and move it into those organs that are required to perform intense physical activity. This response also suppresses appetite usually.
However, there are also some hormones released that increase hunger, and this is why some people turn to snacks, ice-cream or chocolate when they are feeling anxious or stressed.
Also, there has been some evidence that a parasitic infection can trigger IBS. One of the symptoms of a parasite infestation is hunger. Parasite infestations are sometimes hard to diagnose, so speak with your doctor.
So, does irritable bowel syndrome make you hungry? Well, the answer appears to be ‘maybe’.
Don’t forget, if you haven’t joined already, to sign up for the free IBS newsletter that has proven methods for managing IBS naturally. In the newsletter you’ll also find more information on other IBS complications like IBS with constipation.
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