Because most people do not seek help until symptoms become particularly frustrating, irritable bowel syndrome pathogenesis or the progression or development of the syndrome is unknown. Some things are known about IBS. For example, it is known that many people who have IBS also suffer from some emotional trouble, particularly stress or anxiety. These issues are not believed to be the cause of irritable bowel syndrome, because it is not known whether the stress comes first or the IBS comes first. It is clear that stress and other emotional issues can worsen symptoms.

Although irritable bowel syndrome pathogenesis has not been completely researched, research does show that certain people are more prone to the syndrome than others. About 80% of the estimated 35 million Americans that have IBS are women. It is suspected that monthly hormonal changes may be a cause of irritable bowel syndrome in women, but all women have hormonal changes and not all women develop IBS. Identifying the cause of irritable bowel syndrome in the individual usually requires a food and symptoms diary. Most people who suffer from symptoms of IBS have been able to identify certain foods that lead to symptoms. By avoiding these foods, they have been able to reduce their symptoms.

Irritable bowel syndrome pathogenesis may be related to food allergies. If you have IBS and you have not been tested for food allergies, it may be worth your while to see an allergy specialist. Food sensitivities may be a cause of irritable bowel syndrome and learning what foods you are sensitive to can be accomplished by keeping a food and symptoms diary.

Research into irritable bowel syndrome pathogenesis has revealed that an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines is present in some patients. However, IBS has also been linked to certain antibiotics. It seems that the cause of irritable bowel syndrome may be a lack of balance between good bacteria, which is always present in the intestines, and bad bacteria, which should not be present. Probiotics present in yogurt is sometimes recommended to improve the balance. When an overgrowth of bacteria is believed to be the cause of irritable bowel syndrome, doctors may prescribe antibiotics.

Other research into irritable bowel syndrome pathogenesis has shown that pain and contraction of stomach muscles may be relieved by antidepressants. Depression is not believed to be a cause of irritable bowel syndrome and antidepressants are not prescribed in this case to relieve depression. They are prescribed because certain ones block pain receptors in the brain and relax stomach muscles. Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed to relieve anxiety as well.

Tracking patients over time has revealed that irritable bowel syndrome pathogenesis does not seem to include any link to colon cancer or inflammatory bowel diseases. Most people who have IBS are able to live normal, healthy, pain-free lives by making a few changes in their diets and lifestyle.

For more information about IBS and other digestive problems, visit www.digestive-disorders-guide.com