#IBS symptoms treatment

[drnishargpatel]

What is irritable bowel syndrome, what are the symptoms, and how is it treated?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive illness affecting millions of people throughout the world. It is a disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause various symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, and bowel habit changes.IBS can be difficult to treat, but understanding the symptoms and treatment choices can help people find relief and improve their quality of life.

Get Knowledge about IBS Being a functional gastrointestinal disorder, irritable bowel syndrome affects how the gut works as opposed to creating structural harm. Although the precise causation of IBS is unknown, some factors are thought to be involved.  These include abnormal muscle contractions in the intestine, inflammation, and changes in the gut microbiome.  Stress and certain foods can also trigger or exacerbate IBS symptoms. 

Diet Tips for Dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be particularly helpful in managing this condition. While IBS varies from person to person, some common triggers include dairy products, high-fat foods, caffeine, and alcohol.  Identifying and avoiding these triggers is crucial for effective IBS treatment. 

Symptoms of IBS

The symptoms of IBS can vary widely but typically include:

Abdominal Pain and Cramping: This is often relieved by bowel movements and can range from mild to severe.

Bloating: Many people with IBS experience a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen. 

Bowel Habits Changes: IBS can result in constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of the two.

Gas: Increased flatulence is another common symptom. 

Mucus in Stool: Some people notice mucus in their stool, which is not usually present in healthy bowel movements. 

It’s important to note that while IBS can be uncomfortable and disruptive, it does not cause permanent damage to the intestines or increase the risk of serious conditions like cancer.

IBS Treatment Options

Managing IBS effectively involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and sometimes medication. Here’s a comprehensive look at the various approaches to IBS treatment:

1. Dietary Changes

One of the most effective ways to manage IBS is by modifying your diet. Here are some dietary tips that can help alleviate symptoms:

Low-FODMAPS Diet: Less consumption of foods high in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols is recommended when following the Low-FODMAP diet. This diet has been shown to significantly improve IBS symptoms for many people. Foods for IBS and IBS-friendly recipes are key components of this approach.

Increase Fiber Intake: For those with IBS-C (constipation-predominant), increasing dietary fiber can help improve bowel movements. Foods like oats, fruits, and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber. High-fiber foods and a fiber-rich diet can aid in managing IBS-C.

Limit Trigger Foods: Identifying and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms is crucial. Common triggers include dairy products, fatty foods, and caffeine.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help with digestion and prevent constipation.

2. Medications

Several medications can be used to manage IBS symptoms, depending on whether you experience IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant), IBS-C (constipation-predominant), or a mix of both. Some options include:

Antispasmodics: The medicines work to relax the muscles in the stomach to reduce pain and cramping in the abdomen.

Laxatives: For IBS-C, laxatives can help promote regular bowel movements.

Anti-Diarrheal Medications: For IBS-D, medications like loperamide can help reduce diarrhea.

Fiber Supplements: Adding fiber supplements can help manage symptoms of IBS-C by providing additional bulk to stool.

3. Probiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria that can aid in reestablishing the gut microbiome's equilibrium. Some studies suggest that certain strains of probiotics can improve IBS symptoms by reducing bloating and pain. Probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, and probiotic supplements are good sources of these beneficial bacteria.

4. Psychological Therapies

Since stress and anxiety can exacerbate IBS symptoms, psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and stress management techniques can be beneficial. These therapies help individuals cope with stress and can improve their overall quality of life.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

A few lifestyle modifications, together with food and medication therapies, can help control IBS:

Daily Workout: Regular exercise can help control bowel movements and lower stress levels.  Exercise for gut health is an excellent way to support digestion.

Adequate Sleep: Ensuring you get enough sleep is essential for overall health and can help manage IBS symptoms. Sleep and gut health are closely linked.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve gut health.

Tips for Managing IBS

Managing IBS requires a personalized approach, as what works for one person may not work for another. Here are some more suggestions for dealing with IBS:

Keep a Food Diary: Tracking your food intake and symptoms can help identify specific triggers and patterns.

Consult with a Dietitian: A registered dietitian can help you develop a personalized eating plan and guide you through the Low FODMAP diet if necessary.

Stay Consistent: Consistency in dietary and lifestyle changes is key to managing IBS effectively.

Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider: Regular consultations with your healthcare provider can help adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Conclusion

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a manageable condition that can significantly impact the quality of life if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms and exploring various IBS treatment options can help you find relief and improve your well-being. By making informed dietary choices, considering medications and probiotics, and adopting lifestyle changes, you can manage IBS more effectively and lead a healthier life.

Remember, if you suspect you have IBS or are struggling to manage your symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment. You may take charge of your digestive health and improve your quality of life with the appropriate strategy.

[thethingything]

we feel like we have covid and we tested negative so hopefully that does actually mean we don't have it instead of it being a false negative but either way holy shit we feel ill

[sppc2016]

What dietary changes should retired individuals consider during Panchakarma therapy?

Retirement marks a significant phase in life, offering the gift of time and the opportunity for self-care. Panchakarma, a traditional Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapy, is gaining popularity among retirees for its holistic approach to health and well-being. In this blog, we'll explore dietary changes that retired individuals should consider during Panchakarma therapy, addressing specific concerns like arthritis, stress management, asthma, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you're in Delhi, Patanjali Wellness Center is an excellent choice for embarking on this transformative journey.

Arthritis and Panchakarma:

For retirees grappling with arthritis, Panchakarma provides a natural and effective means of relief. In Ayurveda, arthritis is believed to result from the accumulation of toxins in the joints. During Panchakarma, a personalized diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and green leafy vegetables can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting joint health. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids from sources like flaxseeds and walnuts can also be beneficial.

Stress Management and Diet:

Retirement often brings its own set of stressors, and stress management therapy is crucial for overall well-being. Panchakarma recognizes the mind-body connection, emphasizing the role of diet in managing stress. A diet comprising whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables provides essential nutrients that support mental health. Additionally, including stress-relieving herbs such as ashwagandha and tulsi can enhance the therapeutic effects of Panchakarma.

Asthma and Dietary Choices:

Retirees dealing with asthma can find relief through Ayurvedic approaches. Panchakarma includes treatments to clear respiratory passages and strengthen the lungs. Dietary adjustments play a crucial role in supporting this process. Consuming warm, easily digestible foods and avoiding cold or heavy meals can aid respiratory function. Foods with anti-inflammatory properties, like ginger and garlic, can contribute to alleviating asthma symptoms. The Patanjali Wellness Center in Delhi offers specialized care for asthma through Ayurvedic principles.

IBS Treatment with Panchakarma:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be a common concern for retirees. Panchakarma offers personalized treatments to balance the digestive system. Dietary modifications during Panchakarma may involve incorporating fiber-rich foods like oats and flaxseeds to promote healthy digestion. Probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and kefir can support gut health, a key aspect of IBS treatment.

Choosing the Right Ayurvedic Clinic:

Patanjali Wellness Center in Delhi stands out as a premier destination for Panchakarma therapy. With a focus on traditional Ayurvedic principles, the center offers personalized care for various health concerns, including arthritis, stress, asthma, and IBS. The expert practitioners at Patanjali Wellness Center integrate dietary recommendations seamlessly into the overall Panchakarma experience, ensuring a comprehensive and effective approach to health.

Embarking on Panchakarma therapy during retirement is a wise investment in one's health and well-being. By incorporating specific dietary changes, individuals can enhance the benefits of this Ayurvedic detoxification process. Whether seeking relief from arthritis, managing stress, treating asthma, or addressing IBS, retirees can trust the holistic care provided by Patanjali Wellness Center in Delhi. The journey to rejuvenation begins with personalized dietary choices, aligning with the principles of Panchakarma for a healthier and more fulfilling retirement.

[gastroenterologist]

Discover comprehensive information on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment options. Learn how to manage IBS effectively.

[familydocblog]

Finding Relief from IBS: Your Guide to Managing Symptoms and Living Better

In this post, I’ll go over what IBS is, what causes those miserable symptoms, plus simple yet effective lifestyle tweaks, treatments and coping strategies to help you minimize symptoms and feel more in control.

If your stomach issues have you doubled over in pain, rushing to the bathroom, or popping antacids daily, you might be one of the 30 million Americans struggling with IBS. Don’t worry – you’re not alone. And most importantly, there are solutions! In this post, I’ll go over what IBS is, what causes those miserable symptoms, plus simple yet effective lifestyle tweaks, treatments and coping…

[healthhuman]

8 Symptoms You Should Never Ignore in Children

If only children came with gauges or even an owner’s manual! Deciphering symptoms is an important part of being a parent and in keeping your child safe without rushing to the doctor at the drop of a hat.

READ MORE HERE

[dr-smita-goel-homeopathy-clinic]

*DR. SMITA GOEL HOMEOPATHY CLINIC*

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers (sores) in your digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly.

Ulcerative colitis can be debilitating and can sometimes lead to life-threatening complications. While it has no known cure, treatment can greatly reduce signs and symptoms of the disease and even bring about long-term remission.

*Symptoms*

Ulcerative colitis symptoms can vary, depending on the severity of inflammation and where it occurs. Signs and symptoms may include:

• Diarrhea, often with blood or pus

• Abdominal pain and cramping

• Rectal pain

• Rectal bleeding — passing small amount of blood with stool

• Urgency to defecate

• Inability to defecate despite urgency

• Weight loss

• Fatigue

• Fever

• In children, failure to grow

Most people with ulcerative colitis have mild to moderate symptoms. The course of ulcerative colitis may vary, with some people having long periods of remission.

Types

Doctors often classify ulcerative colitis according to its location. Types of ulcerative colitis include:

• *Ulcerative proctitis*: Inflammation is confined to the area closest to the anus (rectum), and rectal bleeding may be the only sign of the disease. This form of ulcerative colitis tends to be the mildest.

• *Proctosigmoiditis*: Inflammation involves the rectum and sigmoid colon (lower end of the colon). Signs and symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain, and an inability to move the bowels in spite of the urge to do so (tenesmus).

• *Left-sided colitis*: Inflammation extends from the rectum up through the sigmoid and descending colon. Signs and symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and pain on the left side, and unintended weight loss.

• *Pancolitis*: Pancolitis often affects the entire colon and causes bouts of bloody diarrhea that may be severe, abdominal cramps and pain, fatigue, and significant weight loss.

• *Acute severe ulcerative colitis*: This rare form of colitis affects the entire colon and causes severe pain, profuse diarrhea, bleeding, fever and inability to eat.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if you experience a persistent change in your bowel habits or if you have signs and symptoms such as:

• Abdominal pain

• Blood in your stool

• Ongoing diarrhea that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medications

• Diarrhea that awakens you from sleep

• An unexplained fever lasting more than a day or two

Although ulcerative colitis usually isn't fatal, it's a serious disease that, in some cases, may cause life-threatening complications.

*Causes*

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis remains unknown. Previously, diet and stress were suspected, but now doctors know that these factors may aggravate but don't cause ulcerative colitis.

One possible cause is an immune system malfunction. When your immune system tries to fight off an invading virus or bacterium, an abnormal immune response causes the immune system to attack the cells in the digestive tract, too.

Heredity also seems to play a role in that ulcerative colitis is more common in people who have family members with the disease. However, most people with ulcerative colitis don't have this family history.

*Risk factors*

Ulcerative colitis affects about the same number of women and men. Risk factors may include:

• *Age*: Ulcerative colitis usually begins before the age of 30. But, it can occur at any age, and some people may not develop the disease until after age 60.

• *Race or ethnicity*: Although whites have the highest risk of the disease, it can occur in any race. If you're of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, your risk is even higher.

• *Family history*: You're at higher risk if you have a close relative, such as a parent, sibling or child, with the disease.

*Complications*

Possible complications of ulcerative colitis include:

• Severe bleeding

• A hole in the colon (perforated colon)

• Severe dehydration

• Liv0065Rr disease (rare)

• Bone loss (osteoporosis)

• Inflammation of your skin, joints and eyes

• An increased risk of colon cancer

• A rapidly swelling colon (toxic megacolon)

• Increased risk of blood clots in veins and arteries

[lastoneout]

Hey @ my fellow bitches and besties who deal with a lot constipation/gas/bloating because of IBS or other digestive issues!!

Did you know there's a way to deal with it at home on your own without medication?? Because my doctor sure didn't fucking tell me about this!! But I just tried it because my gas always makes me SO fucking nauseous that I can barely function and it takes like an hour for my nausea and IBS meds to kick in, but I always feel the urge to rub my stomach when I'm bloated, so my Wikipedia boyfriend ass googled it and YEP MASSAGING IS BACKED UP BY SCIENCE.

The article does say to not do this if you have recently had abdominal surgery, but here's the method:

"To perform abdominal massage on yourself.

Lie flat on your back with your belly exposed.

Overlap your hands on your lower belly and hold them here as you focus on your breath.

Warm your hands by rubbing them together for about 30 seconds.

Apply any oils that you’re using.

Use the palm of your hand to massage your entire stomach in a clockwise direction several times.

Then massage the centerline of your abdomen, starting below your sternum and ending at your pubic bone.

Do three more lines an inch apart down the left side of the abdomen.

Do the same on the right side of the abdomen.

Then press your fingers into your navel firmly.

Continue massaging with gentle pressure and circle outward from your navel in a clockwise direction.

You can spend extra time on specific areas or trigger points that feel like they need some extra attention.

Do this for up to 20 minutes.

If you don’t feel comfortable massaging yourself, you can also have your abdomen massaged by a massage therapist. Call before you make your appointment to see if the therapist performs abdominal massage. Not all masseuses provide this service."

I also found a slightly different one from the University of Michigan!

"Massaging your stomach can help to move stool along the inside of your colon. It may help relieve symptoms of tightness, pressure, cramping, and bloating.

Start on the right side of your stomach down by the bone of your pelvis.

Rub in a circular motion lightly up to the right side till you reach your rib bones.

Move straight across to the left side.

Work your way down to the left to the hip bone and back up to the belly button for 2-3 minutes.

Rub with your fingertips in a circular motion. You may press a little deeper with your fingers.

Spend about 1 minute moving from the right hip bone to the right ribs then 1 minute across the middle (gently) and then 1 minute down to the left bone by your pelvis to the belly button.

Repeat rub, always in a clockwise motion, for 10 minutes."*

I was literally so nauseous from being bloated that I couldn't even swallow food without feeling like I was going to puke, but I did the second one just sitting up at my desk, clockwise like they both said(I'm assuming bcs that's the direction things travel through your gut) and within like 2 minutes I felt better. I cannot BELIEVE no one has ever recommended this. Fucking life-changing. I used to just sit there and drink sprite and hope it was over soon and now I don't have to do that!! And if people already know about this that's good but like, again, no one EVER told me about this so if this can help even ONE person who struggles like I do I'll consider it a win!

Also, for clarification, I'm not advocating ditching your meds obvs, I just know it takes a while for pills to kick in and I don't think people should have to be miserable while they wait when there's something easy you can do to get some quick relief.

(*I added more bullet points to the second method because the wall of text was a little hard to read.)

[consolecadet]

Going back to celiac awareness month, though, if you have...

a vague IBS diagnosis from a dismissive doctor

inexplicable chronic diarrhea

and/or mysterious vitamin deficiencies

...get tested for celiac disease! The initial screening, the tTg-IgA (tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A) test, is a simple blood test that any primary care doctor should be able to do.

Celiac can develop at any age. People live with celiac symptoms for an average of 6-10 years before getting diagnosed. I know I did, and I was really surprised when I found out I had it. I never noticed a pattern between when I ate foods with gluten in them (which is what triggers celiac symptoms) and when I felt sick...I just felt kinda sick all the time.

Celiac is an autoimmune disease, not a food allergy or intolerance. It can make you really sick, and not just because eating gluten can mess with your stomach. The long-term effects of untreated celiac include bone density loss, severe vitamin deficiencies and malnutrition, and a higher risk of getting certain types of cancer.

Right now, the only treatment for celiac is to avoid gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, common ingredients in things like bread, pasta, and beer). It's a pain in the butt, but trust, it's way better than nearly sharting because you ate a croissant.

[antiterf]

i keep hearing anti-trans people citing studies claiming that trans men who take testosterone always get pelvic floor dysfunction and now i'm afraid to take testosterone

TW: This post has a lot of talk specifically of genitalia and reproductive healthcare, with specific focus on cis women since that's where the research is. It's important to know but I want to give a fair warning for dysphoria.

It's weird that you sent this legitimately when I was looking for stats on that. This is oddly convenient. That never happens.

Pelvic floor dysfunction is incredibly common and while it can get to a point of being severe (prolapse) it's usually constipation, straining, bladder control and regarding mostly AFAB people, pain during vaginal sex.

From what research there is, it does seem that pelvic pain is incredibly common with trans men on testosterone. There's also not a pre and post testosterone question which... should be important. There's also no control group.

There is a recent study that reports that 94.1% of trans men have PFD, but it seems to be lower quality. I'm not saying that to try and completely dismiss it. There's no control group when it would be completely doable for this sort of study. They also don't ask if these symptoms had occurred prior to starting hrt or after.

(Sorry sci hub doesn't have it)

So we can't be positive, but what evidence we do have points to trans men having pelvic pain and PFD while on hrt. Both are honestly really general, and don't inherently mean that prolapse will happen (or "Your vagina will fall out, into the toilet, and you'll flush it down and never get it back. Then you die." Which I'm being partially satirical with that but wouldn't be shocked if some transphobe tried using it).

PFD is treatable with therapy and medication, sometimes surgery, but usually its not needed. There are plenty of trans men and trans mascs who use vaginal estrogen cream to help with dryness and atrophy. PFD is, again, common:

For women of childbearing age, PFD and POP are very common, and 65.8% of women over 40 years report at least one complaint of sexual dysfunction.

And it's likely you'll get it at some point regardless of starting HRT or not.

It's honestly upsetting that such a common, treatable, issue is described as apocalyptic. Like, it's still an important issue to be aware of, and in the studies I link there is mention of participants getting a hysterectomy specifically for pelvic pain. There are a lot of unknowns or barely knowns we have to accept when we start HRT. But don't let people tell you that the worst possible scenario will happen or give you fear mongered healthcare.

If it helps, I fall into the group of PFD and have for my entire life due to IBS. When it comes to intercourse, I do bleed a lot more easily, but often it's just being lubricated. I also take lactobacillus as a probiotic, which is the bacteria that we usually have less of compared to cis women while on hrt. Mainly because it's the best probiotic one for my ibs, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's also helped with vaginal health.

I hope this stuff helps!

[cartoonscientist]

really close to making a Your Fave Has Digestive Illness sideblog because maybe society would call me "insane" or "literally the joker" but I think people who live with crippling, white knuckle abdominal pain day to day deserve one positivity blog that isn't weirdly mean-spirited and self consciously ironic about making shit jokes, just as a treat

bc like idk I'm kind of getting sick of the vibe online that people whose chronic illness involves vomit or bathroom stuff have to constantly make fun of themselves in order to be palatable to able-bodied people

maybe I don't think my health problems are hilarious! maybe I think it's fucked up that I know exactly what coffee ground puke looks like because I've had to identify it and seek medical treatment multiple times. maybe it impacts my self esteem sometimes that I sometimes have to wear incontinence aids as a young adult. maybe I'm sick of doctors abusing and neglecting me and not taking me seriously because they mentally connect my symptoms with obese and elderly people and their contempt for those populations spills over onto me and I want like a cute hurt/comfort fic or silly meme once in a while that isn't reminding me that everyone thinks of my pain as a joke.

but yeah it would have tags for GERD, IBS, gastroparesis, ulcers, etc. and possibly eating/feeding disorders since our communities seem to overlap a lot

(ALSO I feel like if you've had doctors put a camera into your body for like an hour you have the license to define your illness experience however you want, but that's just me)

[sppc2016]

What conditions or health issues can benefit most from Panchakarma treatments?

In the bustling city of Delhi, where the demands of modern life can often take a toll on our well-being, the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda offers a sanctuary of healing through Panchakarma treatments. These therapies not only provide relief from specific health issues but also promote overall wellness, making them a beacon for those seeking a holistic approach to health.

Panchakarma Treatments: A Holistic Healing Journey

Panchakarma Treatments in Delhi:

Delhi, with its vibrant energy and fast-paced lifestyle, is an ideal setting for Panchakarma treatments. These therapies, deeply rooted in Ayurvedic principles, aim to purify and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. In the heart of the city, individuals can find solace in the embrace of Panchakarma treatments, curated to address a myriad of health concerns.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Arthritis:

For those grappling with the discomfort of arthritis, Panchakarma treatments provide a ray of hope. The gentle yet effective therapies target inflammation and help in restoring joint function. Incorporating traditional Ayurvedic techniques, these treatments offer a holistic approach to managing arthritis, promoting long-term relief.

Stress Management Treatment:

In the hustle and bustle of urban living, stress becomes an unwelcome companion. Panchakarma treatments, however, serve as a balm for the stressed soul. By detoxifying the body and calming the mind, these therapies contribute to stress management, providing individuals with a serene oasis amidst the chaos.

Treatment for Asthma in Ayurveda:

Asthma, a condition that can disrupt the rhythm of daily life, finds respite in Ayurvedic approaches. Panchakarma treatments, tailored to address respiratory concerns, aim to enhance lung function and alleviate asthma symptoms. The tranquil ambiance of Ayurvedic centers in Delhi further complements the healing process for those seeking relief from asthma.

IBS Symptoms:

The often perplexing and discomforting symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) find attention in Ayurveda's holistic embrace. Panchakarma treatments target digestive imbalances, offering relief from IBS symptoms. In Delhi's Ayurvedic hospitals, individuals can embark on a journey to restore digestive harmony and reclaim control over their well-being.

Ayurvedic Hospital in Delhi:

When it comes to embracing the benefits of Panchakarma treatments, choosing the right environment is crucial. Delhi boasts a range of Ayurvedic hospitals where experienced practitioners guide individuals through personalized treatment plans. These hospitals, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, are dedicated to fostering a healing space for those seeking the age-old wisdom of Ayurveda.

In the dynamic landscape of health and wellness, Panchakarma treatments stand as a beacon of ancient wisdom, harmonizing traditional practices with modern life. Whether it's finding relief from arthritis, managing stress, addressing asthma, or alleviating IBS symptoms, Panchakarma treatments in Delhi offer a holistic path to well-being. Embrace the transformative power of Ayurveda and embark on a journey towards a healthier, balanced life.

[gastroenterologist]

Irritable bowel syndrome Here’s what are most importanat things to know about the IBS and how to treat it for relief. Basic thumb rule for getting rid of the irritation of IBS is to understand the irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, relate those signs to your own symptoms and know that you are just a doctor’s step away from getting relieved. Your treatment of irritable bowel syndrome can only be mapped out personally for you by an best gastroenterologist like Dr. Vatsal Mehta.

[risingscorchingsuns]

okay so i have the bit where i reblog the post about genya having MALS every time mine flares up, but i realize nobody likely knows what the hell MALS is because it’s pretty rare and massively underdiagnosed. so because this is a thing that Hurts Me A Lot, and also because i genuinely do think it makes canonical sense for genya to have it, so im gonna infodump about it! obvious tw for medical shit and mentions of vascular problems. please do note I am not a professional- just a patient with too much time and having to do my own research because doctors won’t listen to me <3 I write from my own experience and very surface-level research; this is in no way an academic paper.

okay! MALS! what is it? MALS stands for Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome. The median arcuate ligament is a vascular ligament in the lower part of your chest, and MALS is a kind of chronic vascular compression condition where this ligament sits lower than it should. This puts pressure on the celiac artery, which supplies blood to the stomach, liver, and all the other organs and stuff in the lower abdomen.

The symptoms vary, but from the limited research out there as well as my own experience, the primary symptom of MALS is agonizing chronic stomach pain, which has a risk of flaring up after eating or exercise. In my own experience, it’s both, but it’s mostly food. I’ve had days where I barely eat, or eat much less because i really don’t want to have to deal with a flareup. There’s no foods that trigger it specifically as far as I know, but I’ve noticed that things with high fat or oil contents make the flareups happen faster. For example, sushi- I love tuna nigiri, but the fat in the raw tuna always leaves me in agony 😔 I’ve also had to leave the gym early sometimes, because exercise triggers it. This is less common in my experience, though.

The pain is normally manageable- it feels like a stabbing cramp in my lower abdomen, typically about a 4-5/10 on the pain scale. It sucks, but normally i just have to sit down for about 20 minutes and it passes. But the worst ones have had me completely immobilized, sometimes for hours at a time. The worst one I ever had actually had me hospitalized; I was on the floor curled up, in so much pain I could barely even breathe. It was like someone was twisting knives in my insides- I thought I was dying. I run the risk of pain like this every time I eat. Pain like that is rare for me, and I’ve never met anyone else with my condition, but if they feel pain like that more often than I do, it’s all the more reason to raise awareness for MALS.

As far as I know, there’s nothing to be done for pain management. Ibuprofen and things like that either don’t touch it, or the pain simply passes before it takes effect. Regardless, the only thing I’ve found to do is wait it out, and don’t strain myself. There is a surgical cure, an open vascular surgery to relieve the pressure on the artery. But MALS is very rare, mostly because it is massively, massively underdiagnosed. It took ten years for doctors to stop telling me I was just lactose intolerant/experiencing menstrual cramps and actually run a CT scan on me. I believe the diagnoses rate is two out of every hundred thousand patients. MALS is mistaken for all sorts of things; lactose intolerance, IBS, Crohn’s, pretty much any Tummyache Disorder can get confused for MALS. Additionally, I’ve found mentions of patients saying doctors just straight up don’t believe their pain because there’s no obvious cause. In my experience, finding treatment has been nothing short of a nightmare; because MALS is only debilitating and not technically dangerous, I’ve had countless doctors dismiss my case and tell me to just deal with it. (I could go on a whole rant about sure, yeah, just deal with a coin flip’s chance of agony if I want to sustain myself by literally eating, but whatever thank you fuck you every doctor.) Regardless, MALS is really underdiagnosed, and it’s fairly under-researched as well.

Anyway, onto Genya Shinazugawa. From a surface level, I headcanon him to have MALS because he’s my blorbo and I love projecting onto fictional characters, but if I do a bit of analysis it actually makes a lot of sense. The most obvious symptom is his demon-eating; his ‘stronger’ digestive organs could be some fictional result of MALS. Something or other less blood flow tolerates demon magic something something fantasy. The important thing is, it’s mentioned in the manga that Genya has frequent checkups at the Butterfly Mansion due to his demon eating. I can’t remember exactly where, but im pretty sure it’s mentioned that this ability is harmful to his health/causes him pain. Therefore it’s not unreasonable to assume that eating demons can trigger Genya’s MALS, just as tuna triggers mine. Additionally, it was mentioned in the anime (I believe it was a Taisho Era Secret in the Swordsmith Village arc?) that Genya often refuses food, going long periods without eating. This is a common mental side effect of MALS- a lot of patients, myself included, develop a hesitance or even fear of eating due to the likelihood of it triggering a flareup. It’s likely that Genya is doing the same thing.

Anyway!! If you have any questions, or feel that I’ve missed something, please let me know!! As per usual for me I’ve written this mostly past 3am, so it’s possible I could have my lore crossed!! Regardless id be interested to hear everyone’s thoughts on this headcanon, because it’s not one that I’ve heard before. Thanks for reading! 💜🪲

[lifewithchronicpain]

About 12 million people in the United States – nearly 5% of the adult population – have chronic pain that is accompanied by anxiety or depression so severe that it limits their ability to work, socialize and complete daily tasks, according to a new study.

The co-occurrence of chronic pain with anxiety and/or depression (A/D) is well known, but little research has been conducted on its prevalence or impact. To see how often the symptoms occur, researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences analyzed responses from nearly 32,000 people who participated in the 2019 National Health Interview Survey.

Their findings, published in in the journal PAIN, show that adults with chronic pain are about five times more likely to report anxiety or depression than those without chronic pain. The risk is even higher in adults with “high impact pain” – pain severe enough to limit daily life and work activities -- who are eight times more likely to have A/D. "The study's findings highlight an underappreciated population and health care need -- the interdependency between mental health and chronic pain," said lead author Jennifer De La Rosa, PhD, director of strategy for the UArizona Health Sciences Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center...

...Researchers say further studies are needed to see if people receiving pain treatment are also getting mental health care, and whether that care is helping with their symptoms. A recent study found that anxiety, depression and other mood disorders often precede the development of fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). (Read more at link)

Yeah that was exactly my experience. Struggled with depression and anxiety from early teens and then by late twenties I started developing chronic issues starting with IBS, but also eventually including Fibromyalgia and a herniated disk. Although I did suffer from severe migraines in my teens too that aren't as debilitating now.

Also there is a risk of taking benzos for anxiety and opioids for pain together. Some doctors won't even prescribe opioids to people on benzos like Klonopin and Ativan. I actually managed to decrease the amount of Ativan I need monthly by just smoking marijuana daily.