Posts Tagged ‘irritable’

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal disorder, accounting for 25 to 50 percent of all referrals to gastroenterologists. The exact cause is unknown, but researchers at the Institute of Human Genetics in Heidelberg, Germany have discovered a genetic mutation in serotonin receptors of the intestinal tract that may cause the diarrhea which many people with IBS experience. Serotonin is a hormone that is found not only in the central nervous system, but in large abundance in the GI tract. A mutation in a receptor for serotonin can explain GI disturbances, such as diarrhea. This discovery will likely pave the way for future treatments of IBS.

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A new study reported in the British Medical Journal finds that often overlooked over the counter remedies for irritable bowel syndrome are more effective than placebo. The study shows that ispaghula husk, antispasmodics (particularly hyoscine), and peppermint oil are all effective treatments for irritable bowel syndrome. The researchers, however, did not distinguish between constipation- and diarrhea-predominant IBS. The study authors stated that the advent of newer and more expensive drugs, these remedies are overlooked as potentially effective treatments.

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