The Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Essay Example

"The Irritable Bowel Syndrome" is a peculiar example of a paper on the gastrointestinal system.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disease that affects the abdomen causing placid to rigorous pain. It can also cause diarrhea and constipation which can cause problems for the patient. The disease has no known cure but its effects can be mitigated by using a combination of a change in diets, medicine, and psychological therapy. The cause of the disease is also unknown. This paper identifies the symptoms, biology, and treatment options of the disease. It also investigates the probable causes and effects of the disease on the quality of life of the patient.  

Body system and Biology of disease 

Abdominal pain is the primary symptom of the disease which can range from mild to severe depending upon the condition of the patient. Diarrhea and constipation are also the other common symptoms of this disease (Marks). Diarrhea is characterized by fluidity of fecal evacuations inside patients suffering from this disease. People with constipation report pain when they attempt to have bowel movements. Swelling is also reported in some patients with irritable bowel syndrome.  

Treatment of disease 

There is no known cure for the disease but its symptoms can be mitigated using a combination of dietary changes, medicine, and psychological therapy. Medicines can include laxatives for treatment of constipation while diarrhea is treated with medicine like Imodium and Lomotil ("Irritable Bowel Syndrome").  Antispasmodic and antidepressants are used to treat abdominal pain. Doctors also recommend the increase in fiber intake so that the symptoms of the disease can be relieved. Psychotherapy is also used to cure the symptoms of the disease because of research which has proven its efficacy and efficiency.  

Causes of disease 

The cause of the disease is still unknown despite extensive research conducted by medical researchers. Some scientists believe than the abnormal size of the intestine or colon might cause the disease. Weaknesses in the immunological system might also be the cause of this disease ("Irritable Bowel Syndrome"). Abnormal levels of serotonin inside the abdomen might also be the cause behind the disease. Researchers have also found evidence of bacteria as the reasons for the presence of disease in patients. Mild celiac disease has also been diagnosed in patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome ("Irritable Bowel Syndrome"). 

Impact of disease on quality of life 

The disease is not fatal for the majority of patients but it can cause severe psychological and physical problems for individuals. It can increase the hospital and medical bills of patients because of the expensive tests and treatments available for the disease (WebMd.com). Pain and exhaustion are also exhibited in patients that might retard or hinder their ability to work properly (WebMd.com). Irritable bowel syndrome can also lead to decreased working hours for individuals because of the pain, constipation, and diarrhea that it causes.   

Conclusion 

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic disease that can affect the lifestyle of individuals because of decreased work hours, psychological problems, stress, pain, and exhaustion. The disease is characterized by abdominal pains, constipation, swelling, and diarrhea. The cause of the disease is still unknown while research has pointed out the abnormal size of intestine and colon, bacteria, and increased levels of serotonin as inducing the disease. The disease is managed and treated using a combination of medications and increased intake of fiber. Psychological therapies have also found to be instrumental and beneficial in treating diseases.