Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Singapore

IBS is a functional disorder of the gastrointestinal tract (intestines) whereby the sufferer experiences various degrees of abdominal pain and change in bowel motion habits. The term ‘functional’ refers to the fact that there are no abnormalities found on either various types of scans or endoscopy.

There is a wide spectrum in the symptoms of IBS. In addition, as many of these symptoms are fairly vague and non-specific, many patients with IBS may have been labelled as ‘tummy colic’ or ‘non-specific pain’ or even as ‘psychological pain’.

Generally, the symptoms of IBS can be divided into two categories, namely that of abdominal pain and a change in motion habits and stool consistency.

Abdominal Pain

• The symptoms of abdominal pain can range from the milder symptoms such as occasional abdominal discomfort to intermediate symptoms such as abdominal bloatedness with a visible increase in tummy size to severe symptoms such as bad abdominal cramps that affect work and lifestyle. 
• The abdominal pain is often related to the passing of motion, whereby some sufferers experience pain relief after passing motion while others have increased pain after motion. Abdominal bloatedness is often associated with belching or passing wind from the bottom.

Change in Motion Habits and Stool Consistency

• The symptoms of change in motion habits and stool consistency can, in turn, be subdivided into sufferers with diarrhoea symptoms or constipation symptoms. 
• Sufferers with diarrhoea may experience multiple episodes of loose bowel movements, usually of small amounts each time. This contrasts with the diarrhoea associated with food poisoning whereby there are large amounts of stools.
• Sufferers with constipation will often pass small, hard, and often pellet-like stools. Also, they may pass motion only once every few days to once a week. 
• Common to both subgroups are the symptoms of passing mucus (clear discharge) with stools and the sensation of incomplete passing of motion and a burning sensation in the bottom after passing of motion.

Generally, the symptoms of IBS can be divided into two categories, namely that of abdominal pain and a change in motion habits and stool consistency.

Abdominal Pain

The symptoms of abdominal pain can range from the milder symptoms such as occasional abdominal discomfort to intermediate symptoms such as abdominal bloatedness with a visible increase in tummy size to severe symptoms such as bad abdominal cramps that affect work and lifestyle. The abdominal pain is often related to the passing of motion, whereby some suffers experience pain relief after passing motion while others have increased pain after motion. Abdominal bloatedness is often associated with belching or passing wind from the bottom.

Change in Motion Habits and Stool Consistency

The symptoms of change in motion habits and stool consistency can, in turn, be subdivided into sufferers with diarrhoea symptoms or constipation symptoms. Sufferers with diarrhoea may experience multiple episodes of loose bowel movements, usually of small amounts each time. This contrasts with the diarrhoea associated with food poisoning whereby there are large amounts of stools. Suffers with constipation will often pass small, hard, and often pellet-like stools. Also, they may pass motion only once every few days to once a week. Common to both subgroups are the symptoms of passing mucus (clear discharge) with stools and the sensation of incomplete passing of motion and a burning sensation in the bottom after passing of motion.

• The proposed main causes of IBS include abnormal movements and contractions of the gastrointestinal tract, increased sensitivity to pain and gaseous distension, silent inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, changes in the composition of gut bacteria, dietary factors such as sensitivity to certain food groups, and psychological factors.
• Research has identified various potential causes of IBS. One proposed factor is abnormal contractions and movements of the gastrointestinal tract, which can be prolonged and frequent in individuals with IBS. 
• Another factor is changes in gut bacteria composition, which can result from factors such as food poisoning, and may be improved with probiotic supplements. 
•  Psychological factors, such as high levels of stress, anxiety, or depression, may also contribute to IBS symptoms, as certain hormones secreted during these states can impact the gastrointestinal tract.

• Dietary Modifications:
  • Avoid trigger foods (e.g., dairy, gluten, fatty foods, or high FODMAP foods).
  • Incorporate fibre -rich foods (or adjust fibre intake based on your symptoms—more fiber for constipation, less for diarrhoea).
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming the digestive system.
• Hydration:
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help prevent constipation and promote healthy digestion.
• Stress Management:
  • Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
  • Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or light exercise, to reduce stress and improve gut health.
• Regular Exercise:
  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week to help reduce stress and improve gut motility.
• Sleep Hygiene:
  • Prioritise quality sleep by establishing a regular sleep routine, as poor sleep can exacerbate IBS symptoms.
• Limit Caffeine and Alcohol:
  • Reduce or avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can irritate the digestive system and worsen IBS symptoms.
• Mindful Eating:
  • Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly to prevent swallowing air and reduce bloating or discomfort.
• Track Symptoms:
  • Keep a food and symptom diary to identify triggers and patterns in your IBS symptoms.
• Probiotics and Supplements:
  • Consider taking probiotics or other supplements (under a doctor’s guidance) to improve gut flora balance and digestion.

• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Stress reduction techniques (e.g., relaxation exercises, meditation).
  • Avoiding trigger foods like high FODMAP, lactose, and gluten-containing foods.
• Medication:
  • Treatment is personalised based on IBS subtype (constipation or diarrhoea).
  • For Constipation: Laxatives, stool softeners.
  • For Diarrhea: Anti-diarrheal medications.
  • Finding the right combination of medications may involve trial and error.
• Surgical Intervention:
  • Not necessary for IBS.
• Tailored Care:
  • Treatments can be tailored depending on the varying causes and symptoms of IBS.
• Specialised Care in Singapore:
  • Aelius Surgical offers evidence-based treatments and personalised care to help manage IBS symptoms effectively.

Identifying Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Singapore involves recognising its unique symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, which differ from other gastrointestinal conditions. Consulting a specialist for IBS treatment in Singapore ensures accurate diagnosis through medical history, tests, and tailored management plans.

What are risk factors of irritable bowel syndrome?

• Family History: Increased risk if IBS runs in the family.
• Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, or depression may contribute.
• Gender: Women are more prone to IBS, possibly due to hormonal changes.
• Previous Gut Infections: History of gastrointestinal infections can trigger IBS.
• Dietary Triggers: Certain foods and eating patterns may worsen symptoms.
• Age: IBS often develops in individuals under 50.
• Lifestyle Factors: Irregular routines or lack of physical activity may increase risk.

How is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) diagnosed?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is diagnosed based on a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. Key diagnostic approaches include ruling out other conditions through tests like stool analysis, blood tests, and sometimes imaging or endoscopy. The Rome IV criteria, focusing on symptoms like abdominal pain and bowel habit changes, are often used. If you’re seeking IBS treatment in Singapore, consulting a specialist ensures an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

Which type of test are needed for irritable bowel syndrome?

To diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the following tests may be required:

• Blood Tests: To rule out conditions like celiac disease or anaemia.

• Stool Analysis: To check for infections or inflammation.

• Colonoscopy Screening (Singapore): Recommended for patients over 50 or with red-flag symptoms (e.g., rectal bleeding).
• Colonoscopy (Singapore): Used to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities or signs of other conditions like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.