Bowel Problems: What Should You Know About

Are you experiencing persistent abdominal pain, irregular bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss? Bowel problems are more common than you might think, and understanding them is the first step towards effective management and prevention. These issues can range from relatively mild conditions to more severe illnesses. Understanding these problems is crucial for improving health outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for those affected. So, what exactly should you know about bowel problems? Let's explore.

Common Types of Bowel Problems

Our digestive system is a complex and vital part of our overall health, yet it is often overlooked until something goes wrong. Several types of bowel problems are prevalent. The most common include:

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. The exact cause of IBS is not well understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of gut-brain axis dysfunction, abnormal gastrointestinal motility, and heightened visceral sensitivity. Symptoms often include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, or both.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD primarily includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These are chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract from mouth to anus, while ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and rectum. Symptoms of IBD include persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue.

3. Diverticular Disease

This condition occurs when small bulging pouches (diverticula) develop in the digestive tract. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, it leads to diverticulitis. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and a marked change in bowel habits.

4. Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia. It develops from polyps, which are growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Symptoms of colorectal cancer can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, persistent abdominal discomfort, weakness, and unexplained weight loss.

In Australia alone, it is estimated that 3 in 10 people suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects approximately 85,000 individuals. Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, with over 15,000 new cases diagnosed annually. 

Causes and Risk Factors

The causes and risk factors for bowel problems differ depending on the specific condition. For instance, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be triggered by stress, dietary habits, and gastrointestinal infections. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), on the other hand, is often influenced by genetic predisposition and immune system malfunctions.



Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and smoking habits also play a crucial role in overall bowel health. When it comes to colorectal cancer, genetics, a diet high in red and processed meats, low physical activity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are significant contributors. Moreover, the risk of developing colorectal cancer increases notably after the age of 50, making age another critical factor to consider.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing bowel problems typically involves a thorough review of your medical history, a physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. These tests often include blood and stool analyses, colonoscopies, endoscopies, and imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRIs to pinpoint the issue accurately.



The treatment approach varies significantly based on the specific bowel condition. 

For instance, managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) generally focuses on modifying diet, managing stress, and using medications to relieve symptoms. In the case of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), treatments often include anti-inflammatory medications, immune suppressants, and occasionally surgery to remove damaged sections of the digestive tract.

Diverticular disease treatment might involve antibiotics and a liquid diet to allow the bowel to rest, with surgery reserved for more severe cases. When it comes to colorectal cancer, treatment usually consists of a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, tailored to the cancer's stage and location.

Prevention and Management

Final Thoughts

By adopting preventive measures and seeking timely medical intervention, Australians can significantly reduce the impact of bowel problems on their health and well-being.

INS LifeGuard's personal and medical alarm systems provide crucial support for individuals with medical conditions. These systems ensure a direct connection to medical professionals who offer advice and facilitate timely medical interventions. This service reduces the risk of serious health issues and enhances the quality of life for those managing chronic bowel conditions.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about our personalised medical alarm solutions tailored to your needs.