Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Brand New To This: Severity Question

Welcome to the board,

Generally speaking IBS occurs in 5-10% of the population in most countries and it occurs about 1.5 more frequently in women than men. The frequency of onset is highest in the third and fourth decade of life, however it may occur at any age. In about 50-80% of the cases it is never officially diagnosed.

Many IBSers recall the day when the symptoms first occurred. I remember when it happened for me. IBS remission can occur but some small studies have shown that once diagnosed more than 55% of individuals still had IBS after 7 years. One study suggested that chronic ongoing life stress may precluded remission. IBS may also be precipitate by a GI infection. Post-infective IBS (PI-IBS)develops in 3�30% of individuals with bacterial gastroenteritis. About 65% of individuals with PI-IBS recover within 3-5 years.

You can read more about the etiology, epidemiology and management of IBS in the references below.

It is possible that the more aggressive one is in managing IBS symptoms from the onset the higher the likelihood of remission or that it will be less bothersome later in life. This is just a hypothesis since there are few if any studies to support this notion.

Good luck

Reference
Spiller, R., Q. Aziz, F. Creed, et.al, 2007: Guidelines on the irritable bowel syndrome: mechanisms and practical management. Gut, 56, 1770-1798.

Spiller, R Post Infectious Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The UNC Center for Functional GI & Motility Disorders

--------------------
STABLE: ♂, IBS-D 50+ years - Science of IBS

The FODMAP Approach to Managing IBS Symptoms
Evidence-based Dietary Management of Functional GI Symptoms: The FODMAP Approach
FODMAP Chart & Cheatsheet
The Role of Food & Dietary Intervention in IBS

Print Remind Me Notify Moderator