David May 17th, 2007

Up to 15 percent of the U.S. population suffers from irritable bowel syndrome, which can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea.

But it’s one of the most misunderstood disorder among patients, according to Dr. William D. Chey, director of the gastrointestinal physiology laboratory in the University of Michigan division of gastroenterology.

So he’s listed seven of the most common myths about the syndrome.

1. It’s all in your head - It’s likely that psychological distress or stress worsen IBS, but may not be the primary cause of the disorder.

2. The syndrome only affects young women - It does tend to occur most often in women, but there are many men - and perhaps up to 10 percent of the elderly - also diagnosed with the syndrome.

3. It’s not important - Though IBS may not shorten a person’s life, the quality of life and ability to function can be affected.

4. The disorder is related to lactose intolerance - About a quarter of the patients with the disorder are lactose intolerant, but that matches the percent of lactose-intolerant people in the general population.

5. People with the disorder can only eat bland foods - Fatty foods, milk, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine can set off symptoms, but not everything has to be eliminated from a diet.

6. Irritable bowel syndrome cannot be accurately diagnosed - The disorder can be diagnosed by looking at persistent or recurring abdominal pain and changed bowel habits.

7. There are no good treatments - The disorder can be managed with counseling, dietary and lifestyle changes and medications. If that doesn’t work, prescription medications are available.

Article Source: Mlive

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