IRRITABLE-BOWEL-SYNDROME - STREAMLINING THE DIAGNOSIS

IBS is one of the most common of the gastrointestinal diseases, but it can be a diagnostic challenge because of the many symptoms that overl ay with other such diseases. Most common among the symptoms are abdomi nal pain, a feeling of intestinal distention or bloating, and either d iarrhea or constipation. Patients may be found to have an exacerbation of symptoms with stress, and they may have an increased sensitivity t o bowel distention. History and physical examination findings often ca n be relied on to make the diagnosis, avoiding overuse of laboratory t esting. Treatment consists of patient education and support, lifestyle and dietary changes, and use of several pharmacologic agents for symp tom relief. Antidepressants are being investigated as a possible addit ional form of treatment.