Sensitive gut
What lies behind the general diagnosis of "sensitive bowel"?
In my work at the clinic, I encounter many people dealing with chronic digestive symptoms who have undergone a journey of comprehensive tests and left the doctors without findings or treatment suggestions, but with a general and frustrating diagnosis - "sensitive bowel." Irritable bowel syndrome is an elusive phenomenon that tends to confuse doctors, researchers, and other professionals.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
It is a chronic digestive disorder that affects millions worldwide, presenting with a combination of symptoms ranging from physical discomfort to emotional distress. It is characterized by a range of symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating , gas, diarrhea, and constipation . Not all symptoms will appear in all cases, and the severity and frequency will also vary from person to person. Symptoms can appear unexpectedly, causing emotional distress, discomfort, and a reduction in quality of life. The cause of the development of the syndrome is unknown to Western medicine, but there are hypotheses that suggest a connection to stress, damage to intestinal bacteria as a result of overuse of antibiotics, and there may also be a genetic connection. How is it diagnosed?
The diagnostic process for irritable bowel syndrome is based primarily on the description of the symptoms reported by the patient, and the exclusion of other digestive disorders. Since there are no specific tests to diagnose the syndrome, and because IBS shares symptoms with several other digestive disorders, a key part of the diagnostic process is to rule out other problems, such as Crohn's, colitis, celiac disease, and more. To rule out other diseases, there are several tests that can be done, such as a stool test, blood test, colonoscopy, and imaging tests. Conventional treatment for IBS
Because the cause of the syndrome is unknown, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms rather than a cure.
There is medication for specific symptoms, such as antispasmodics for pain, antidiarrheals, stool softeners for constipation, etc. Sometimes the use of antidepressants (such as Cipralex) in low doses is also recommended. Clinical experience shows that these medications reduce the transmission of pain from the intestine to certain areas of the brain. In addition, some doctors and nutritionists emphasize lifestyle and dietary changes, and will recommend a diet for irritable bowel syndrome called FODMAP. The connection between IBS and mental health
The connection between the body and mind has been known to Chinese medicine for thousands of years, but science is also beginning to recognize it, specifically the connection between the brain and the stomach. Studies show that there is a two-way communication system between the gut and the central nervous system that exists through the vagus nerve, intestinal bacteria and hormones produced in the digestive system (e.g. serotonin). This allows us to understand how stress, anxiety and emotional factors can affect intestinal function and worsen/cause symptoms of IBS. This highlights the importance of mental health and maintaining a balanced lifestyle as part of the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.Chinese Medicine and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The diagnosis of "sensitive bowel" has no special importance in the eyes of Chinese medicine. As soon as a patient comes to the clinic complaining of various problems in the digestive system, the diagnosis and treatment adjustment are made individually according to the overall picture presented by the patient and not only according to the specific symptoms with which he comes. This means that two different people who suffer from sensitive bowel syndrome will each receive different treatment that is tailored to them personally, despite the common Western diagnosis.As part of the diagnostic process, a thorough investigation of the situation is necessary to understand and treat the root of the problem, and this will include questions such as what symptoms the patient is suffering from, when it started, what makes the condition worse and what alleviates it, what kind of lifestyle the patient maintains (diet, sleep, work, relationships, physical activity), and more. In addition, there is a physical examination that includes checking the pulse, observing the tongue, and checking the patient's abdominal reflexes. All of these together will provide an accurate diagnosis of the patient.The treatment is holistic and includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutritional recommendations, and lifestyle adjustments. This combination is significant in restoring balance to the patient's body and consequently alleviating symptoms. It is important to note that emotional therapy is also of paramount importance when treating irritable bowel syndrome. In the Chinese perspective, the digestive system is considered the center of our body through which the other systems and organs communicate with each other. According to the Five Element Theory, the digestive system is identified with the element of earth, which embodies qualities such as nourishment, stability, and security. Once the earth is out of balance, the person may suffer from feelings of unease, fear/difficulty dealing with changes, basic instability and insecurity, excessive thoughts and worries. My "I believe"
In my experience, it is possible to bring people dealing with irritable bowel syndrome to a balanced state, with significant relief of symptoms, or even without symptoms at all. The combination of Western knowledge with Chinese treatment and the tools they acquire at the clinic, allow them to manage the syndrome instead of it managing them. I believe that the ultimate treatment is one that involves the patient and gives them a sense of control and responsibility over their body, with the guidance and knowledge of a professional who supports and accompanies the process.