WHAT IS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal psychosomatic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by chronic abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel movements and can severely impact a person’s quality of life. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning there is no identifiable structural damage in the digestive system, but symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation are persistent. While the exact cause remains unclear, factors like gut motility disturbances, visceral hypersensitivity, and dysfunction in the gut-brain axis play a significant role. Ayurveda, an ancient holistic system of medicine, correlates IBS with Grahani — a condition stemming from digestive imbalances linked to the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Symptoms for diagnosing as per Allopathic criteria:

  • IBS is typically diagnosed using the Rome IV criteria, which require the patients to experience recurrent abdominal pain at least once a week for three months, along with two or more of the following symptoms:
  • Changes in stool frequency or form.
  • Symptoms related to defecation.
  • Diagnostic tests help rule out other conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or infections.

Symptoms for diagnosing as per Ayurvedic point of view

  • In Ayurveda, the diagnosis of IBS involves evaluating a patient's prakriti (body constitution), vikriti (imbalance), and symptoms.

CAUSES

Allopathic perspective

  • Gut-Brain Axis Dysfunction: Disruptions in communication between the brain and gut can lead to abnormal gut motility and increased sensitivity.
  • Visceral Hypersensitivity: This heightened sensitivity to gut stimuli causes abdominal pain and bloating.
  • Altered Gut Microbiota: Imbalances in gut bacteria may contribute to inflammation and changes in digestion.
  • Genetic and Environmental Factors: Genetic predispositions, stress, and infections can exacerbate IBS symptoms.

Ayurvedic Perspective

  • In Ayurveda, IBS is linked to Grahani (digestive impairment) and is thought to result from an imbalance in the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Each dosha has different manifestations in IBS
  • Vata Dominance: Associated with constipation, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
  • Pitta Dominance: Linked to loose stools, inflammation, and a burning sensation.
  • Kapha Dominance: Often causes mucus-laden stools and sluggish digestion.
  • Ayurveda focuses on restoring balance through dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes to support digestion and gut health.

TREATMENT AT SANJEEVANAM

  • Herbal Remedies: Freshly prepared Ayurvedic special combination medicines are using to promote digestion and regulate bowel movements, depending on the type of dosha imbalance.
  • Dietary corrections: Ayurveda recommends consuming light, warm, and easily digestible foods to support the digestive fire (Agni) and avoid foods that aggravate dosha imbalances.
  • Panchakarma Therapy: Ayurvedic detoxification therapies like Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Vasthi (medicated enemas) are tailored to individual dosha imbalances to promote overall digestive health.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Practices like yoga, pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation are effective in promoting mental and physical relaxation. These techniques help reduce stress, a major trigger for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) symptoms, and can contribute to improved digestive health and overall well-being.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be a challenging condition, but with the right combination of therapies, relief is possible by combining conventional medical treatments with Ayurvedic principles, patients may experience improved symptom relief, better digestive function, and enhanced overall well-being. This integrative approach offers the potential for a more personalized and effective treatment plan, improving the quality of life for those suffering from IBS.

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