IBS, or rather Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is not a new term for many. It has gained prominence recently, as more people are diagnosed as suffering from this debilitating syndrome.

I’m sure many have asked, what is it precisely, does some form of diagnosis exist, and more importantly, can anything be done to control it?

Chronic abdominal pain and disturbance of bowel functioning are the main characteristics of this disorder, which affects up to 10% of the population. However it is at this point that the issue of diagnosis comes into the picture.

It is all too easy to label stomach pains after a meal as someone being lactose intolerant or coeliac, that is having an allergy to gluten products, but these conclusions are sometimes too drastic. In some cases identifying a sufferer is a lengthy process, as other disorders, such as coeliac disease or cancer, must first be eliminated.

IBS can be triggered by a combination of factors, which may be related to a particularly stress prone personality, or after some minor surgical intervention or a bout of gastroenteritis.

In most people it develops between the ages of 30 and 35, others develop it by the age of 45, although in some cases it does develop later. It is much easier however, to make a proper diagnosis when the sufferer is younger, according to Professor Godfrey Laferla.

An IBS sufferer may report a number of symptoms, though the most common are abdominal pains and altered bowel habits. The sufferer may also experience a sensation of incomplete emptying, gas, bloating and mucus in the stool.

Additionally they may find a range of different symptoms, from dizziness and headaches to muscle pains and backaches. Sufferers will find that symptoms are notably absent at night.

Passage of blood; however is not a normal IBS symptom, and in this case one must refer to a doctor. Educational campaigns are focused more on making people aware of the importance of excluding other things like malignancy, due to similar symptoms.

Although it may seem an increasing number of people are being diagnosed as IBS sufferers, this can probably be chalked down to people becoming increasingly cautious and health aware, therefore more willing to seek advice. In general, there seems to be a higher percentage of women suffering from IBS.

When it comes to IBS, there is unfortunately no magic cure. On the other hand, certain measures can be taken to minimise its effects. Eating a high fibre diet and drinking plenty of water are basic guidelines.

The idea is to avoid any foods which cause gas, such as broccoli and cauliflower, and drinks such as tea or coffee. Whole wheat bread is preferable. Probiotic drinks and yoghurts, which have recently exploded on the market, may help in some cases as they provide good bacteria, to counter those causing the symptoms.

When it comes to treatments, anti spasmodic tablets may help to relieve cramps and spasms of the stomach, and charcoal tablets are sometimes given. In some cases mild anxiolytics are prescribed to treat anxiety. Some people believe in hypnosis or yoga, which can be beneficial in reducing stress.

In conclusion, the right kind of diet and medication to minimise symptoms are ways of making the quality of life of the sufferer somewhat better.