By Robert Scheer
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is not an illness like a cold or the flu which an individual suddenly contracts and, although the symptoms are unpleasant, they usually diminish over time and ultimately go away. IBS, on the other hand, is more of a chronic problem, with either symptoms of diarrhea or constipation that continues for a prolonged period of time. Other names for Irritable Bowel Syndrome include spastic colon, mucous colitis, nervous stomach, irritable colon and spastic colitis.
IBS is not only a problem for the estimated 10% to 20% of the general population who suffer from its symptoms; it is also a significant problem for their employers. In general, IBS sufferers have significantly higher rates of lost working days -- three times as many sick days used -- as people with regular bowel habits.
Despite the scope of the problem, the cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms is not something upon which the medical establishment agrees. There is no consensus about whether the disorder is caused by abnormal functioning of the muscles in the digestive system, or the nerves that control those muscles. Whether due to malfunctioning motor nerves, sensory nerves, or a combination of both, the fact remains that individuals with IBS suffer from a malfunction of their intestines that causes them either to be too active or not active enough. Additional symptoms among some people with IBS are excessive gas, bloating, stomach or intestinal cramps, and pain. Another symptom of IBS is the feeling following a bowel movement that evacuation has not been complete. In some cases, IBS patients also report conditions that are not associated with the digestive system, including headaches, pain in the lower back, arthritis and pains in the chest that do not involve the heart.
People with IBS at first are affected by the annoyance of the symptoms. Especially those with frequent diarrhea or flatulence sometimes have to limit their activities so that they cannot attend social events or travel unless they can be assured of always having a toilet nearby. But prolonged IBS can be more than an inconvenience; it can lead to malnutrition, imbalance of body weight, an increase of toxins in the body, or other related consequences.
There is a new treatment for IBS that is available in two different formula combinations, one for those who suffer primarily from diarrhea, and a different one for people whose main digestive dysfunction is constipation. The product, Bowtrol, is formulated from 100% natural ingredients. It is available without a prescription and, unlike some prescription medications, it does not lead to unpleasant side effects. Both Bowtrol formulas include Lactospore Probiotic, which helps build and maintain healthy intestinal flora. The difference in the two formulas is that one addresses the problem of diarrhea with Colon Control, while the other treats constipation with Colon and Parasite Cleanser to provide gentle stimulation and regulation to the gastrointestinal tract.
Robert Scheer is a free lance journalist and a consultant for the IBS Symptoms Information site. For more information visit http://www.ibs-symptoms.info.
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