Irritable bowel syndrome. A survey of nurses' knowledge

Comparison of Rectal and Esophageal Sensitivity in Women With Functional Heartburn

This study tested the primary hypothesis that there is a correlation of maximum pain threshold (MPT) in the esophagus and rectum in persons with functional heartburn. Secondary aims evaluated correlations with initial perception threshold (IPT) and pain threshold (PT). This study explored objective sensory endpoints of IPT, PT, and MPT in the esophagus and rectum of 14 females with functional heartburn to determine whether visceral hypersensitivity is generalized or organ-specific. Data on volume and pressure measurements at IPT, PT, and MPT with esophageal and rectal barostat distention were collected. The relationship of sensation and pain to volume, pressure, and compliance was analyzed. Esophageal and rectal IPT balloon volume scores were highly and significantly correlated (r = .61, p = .02). Esophageal and rectal PT balloon volume scores were highly and significantly correlated (r = .6, p = .02). Esophageal and rectal MPT balloon volume scores were not correlated (r = .35, p = .26). The correlation of visceral sensitivity in the esophagus and rectum in persons with functional heartburn supports the hypothesis that visceral sensory changes in functional gastrointestinal disorders are not organ specific.

Irritable bowel syndrome subtype screening characteristics: constipation subtype patient profiles explored

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a chronic disorder, greatly impacts the lives of those affected. Approximately one quarter of the North American population suffers from this condition that includes abdominal pain, discomfort and alterations in normal bowel function. Constipation-subtype IBS (IBS-C) is often found to be a prevalent subtype; however, a lack of knowledge and effective treatment options remains surrounding this disorder. In the course of an ongoing study conducted by our research team on the use of acupuncture and moxibustion in the management of IBS symptoms, a considerable number of screened patients havemet the widely accepted Rome III criteria for IBS-C.

What do patients with irritable bowel syndrome know about their disorder and how do they use their knowledge?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder for which many patients experience a lack of information. By using a questionnaire, we aimed to explore how much knowledge these patients have, and what they find important to receive information and explanation about. Eighty-six subjects with IBS diagnosed in primary care and referred to a gastroenterologist completed the questionnaire before meeting the gastroenterologist. Approximately 80% had knowledge about IBS, although 55% stated that their knowledge was "just vague." According to visual analogue scale measurement, knowledge as well as satisfaction with knowledge was poor. Most patients had correct knowledge about IBS. Only 15% considered themselves to be thoroughly informed, and 24% stated that they had not received any information at all. The most important issue they wanted information about was what to do to improve symptoms. Many IBS patients seem to have correct knowledge about IBS; however, they do not consider themselves to have that knowledge, and therefore probably do not feel confident in using their knowledge. Encouraging and supporting patients with IBS could contribute to an increased ability to use their knowledge in a more appropriate way.

Symptom management for irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot randomized controlled trial of acupuncture/moxibustion

The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the effect of an individualized traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) acupuncture and moxibustion (Acu/Moxa) treatment on symptom control in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in a preliminary, randomized, sham/placebo-controlled trial. Twenty-nine men and women with IBS were randomized to either individualized Acu/Moxa (treatment group) or sham/placebo Acu/Moxa (control group). All subjects were assessed by a diagnostic acupuncturist for a TCM evaluation and individualized point prescription. Only those subjects assigned to the experimental group received the individually prescribed treatment. The diagnostic acupuncturist did not administer treatments and was blind to treatment assignments. All subjects kept a symptom diary for the duration of the study, enabling measurement of symptom frequency, severity, and improvement. The Clinical Global Impression Scale was administered preintervention to establish baseline severity and on completion of the 4-week, eight-session treatment intervention. After 4 weeks of twice-weekly Acu/Moxa treatment, average daily abdominal pain/discomfort improved whereas the control group showed minimal reduction. This between-group difference adjusted for baseline difference was statistically significant. The intestinal gas, bloating, and stool consistency composite score showed a similar pattern of improvement. The findings indicate that Acu/Moxa treatment shows promise in the area of symptom management for IBS.

Women with irritable bowel syndrome: differences in patients' and physicians' perceptions

The effective management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is enhanced by a therapeutic relationship between healthcare providers and the patient. This survey focused on addressing the symptoms and impact of IBS in women, as well as physician perceptions regarding IBS. A national survey was undertaken to 1) describe the attitudes, knowledge, treatment strategies, and compliance of women with IBS; 2) compare women with IBS to those without IBS on general health and activity limitations; 3) compare women with IBS to physicians regarding their relative perceptions about the disorder; and 4) determine whether physician gender influenced patient satisfaction.