Khaberni - Gastroenterology experts say that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) flare-ups do not involve organic damage to the intestines, but rather a disorder in their functioning and interaction with the nervous system, leading to the appearance of annoying and varying severity of symptoms.
According to the American site "Very Well Health," during these episodes, the intestines become more sensitive to natural stimuli, causing feelings of pain or discomfort even with normal digestive movements. Also, the pace of bowel movements changes, as it may increase in speed or slow down, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation or alternating between them.
Doctors point out that bloating and gas formation are common symptoms, due to digestive disturbances or the slow passage of food through the colon, alongside disturbances in what is known as the "brain-gut axis," where stress and anxiety can lead to an increase in symptom severity.
The duration of irritable bowel syndrome episodes varies from one person to another, as they may last for hours or days before the condition returns to relative calm. Meanwhile, the periods between episodes are less severe in terms of symptoms.
Specialists confirm that irritable bowel syndrome is considered a non-serious chronic condition, but it requires lifestyle management and dealing with dietary and psychological triggers to reduce the frequency of episodes.
