Irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) is a common but complex digestive disorder that can significantly affect quality of life. People with PDS regularly experience abdominal pain, bloating and fluctuating bowel movements. It is often said that "nothing can be done," but there are certainly ways to reduce symptoms. In this blog, we discuss the possible causes, symptoms and treatment options of PDS so you can better understand how to get a handle on this condition.
What is PDS?
PDS is a chronic disorder that interferes with the function of the intestines. Normally, digestion proceeds in several stages: food is broken down in the stomach, then further processed in the small intestine with the help of enzymes and bile, after which nutrients are absorbed. Fluid is extracted in the large intestine, and eventually waste leaves the body through the stool. In people with PDS, the intestines work less efficiently due to disturbed intestinal flora, hypersensitive nerves, a damaged intestinal wall or overactive intestinal muscles. This can lead to a range of symptoms, ranging from abdominal pain to digestive problems. Unlike conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, PDS does not cause permanent damage to the intestines. Still, the symptoms can be quite bothersome and affect daily life.
Symptoms of PDS
Symptoms of PDS can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms are:
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Abdominal pain or cramps, often relieved after bowel movements
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Bloating and flatulence
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Alternating diarrhea and constipation
Do you have these symptoms weekly for three months or longer? If so, PDS could be a possible cause of your symptoms. A doctor can determine if you actually have PDS.
Causes of PDS
Although the exact cause of PDS is not fully known, several factors play a role:
- Impaired gut-brain communication: The gut and brain communicate through the nervous system. In PDS, this communication may be impaired, causing the intestines to react hypersensitively to stimuli such as food and stress.
- Gut flora imbalance: In our intestines live billions of bacteria, collectively called the gut microbiome. PDS often involves an imbalance between good and harmful bacteria.
- Food triggers: Some foods, such as gluten, dairy, carbonated beverages and highly processed foods, can disrupt the gut microbiome and trigger PDS symptoms.
- Damaged intestinal wall: Inflammation or infection can damage the intestinal wall, causing it to pass harmful substances into the bloodstream. This can lead to symptoms.
Treatment options in PDS
There is no standard cure for PDS, but you can take steps to reduce your symptoms. An important first step is understanding what is going on in your gut. This can be done through a intestinal examination, which identifies which bacteria are dominant and what imbalances are at play.
In addition, the following modifications may help:
- Nutrition: Reducing foods that irritate the intestines (such as sugars, gluten and lactose) can help reduce symptoms.
- Stress Management: Stress has a direct impact on the gut. Techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga and meditation can help improve gut-brain communication.
- Lifestyle: Regular exercise, drinking enough water and a healthy sleep rhythm contribute to healthy bowel function.
Our therapists specialize in these types of complaints, so they are happy to take a look with you. Schedule a colon examination with us to work with the cause!
Start here for a PDS-free life
Summary
Irritable bowel syndrome is an annoying but manageable condition. It can be caused by disrupted gut-brain communication, an imbalance in gut flora, nutritional triggers or a damaged gut wall. Take your symptoms seriously and seek help from a therapist, because there really are ways to reduce your symptoms! By identifying the cause of your symptoms, you can make targeted efforts to improve your gut health and live a life free of PDS symptoms.
