Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Abstract

The irritable bowel syndrome, or what patients call “indigestion,” is characterized by belching, bloating and borborygmus. Most of the symptoms have a physiologic or psychogenic basis, but thorough study is necessary to rule out organic causes. The bloater syndrome, common in unmarried women of middle age, usually can be readily differentiated from organic disorders. The keystone of management of the irritable bowel syndrome is re-education, with emphasis on an adequate diet (especially breakfast), adequate fluid intake, and regular bowel habits. A sincere attempt should be made to overcome the common and unhealthy habit of regular use of laxatives.