What causes a spastic colon? What kind of things can be done to help the problem?

I.

"Spastic" colon is an old term for a condition that doctors now call irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Patients with IBS may suffer from abdominal cramps (which often improve after a bowel movement), as well as bloating, alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation, mucus in the stool and a change in the size and shape of the stool.

IBS is a chronic condition that often waxes and wanes over time. However, unlike Crohn's disease, it is not a progressive disorder. There is also no excess risk of colon cancer or colitis in patients with IBS.

The exact cause of IBS is still a mystery. Currently, there are three main theories. The first theory is that IBS patients have a hypersensitive small intestine and colon. The second theory holds that IBS patients suffer from abnormal patterns of intestinal contractions, while the third centers on the influence of depression and/or anxiety that is seen among many patients who have IBS.

The diagnosis of IBS is often made after other potential causes of GI symptoms have been excluded, usually after many blood tests and endoscopies. Many different medications are used to treat the symptoms of IBS. Laxatives and antidiarrheal medications are frequently used. In patients with abdominal cramps, antispasmodic drugs (dicyclomine, for example) may be tried. Often an increase in fiber intake (either dietary or supplements) will help relieve constipation and cramps.

Since IBS can be a long-term condition, the most important part of treating IBS is to find a doctor who takes time to answer your questions and listen to your concerns. Ultimately, patients seem to have the best results when they receive regular follow-up from a doctor with whom they have developed a bond.