Question 1

What is the probable underlying pathology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), according to research over the last decade?&#10;A) Alteration in processing of sensory information&#10;B) Changes in intestinal secretory mucosa&#10;C) Intestinal tissue disease&#10;D) Malabsorption of specific nutrients

Accepted Answer

Research over the last decade suggests that the probable underlying pathology of IBS is an alteration in processing of sensory information, leading to visceral hypersensitivity and abnormal perception of bowel movements. This is supported by evidence of changes in brain-gut communication and altered neural signaling in patients with IBS.

Question 2

A patient has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with alternating diarrhea and constipation and asks the provider about dietary changes that may help with symptoms. What will the provider recommend?&#10;A) Avoiding all beverages containing caffeine&#10;B) Consuming a high-fiber diet&#10;C) Eliminating all foods containing dairy products&#10;D) Keeping a food and symptom diary

Accepted Answer

Keeping a food and symptom diary can help identify trigger foods that exacerbate IBS symptoms. This information can then be used to inform dietary changes that may help improve symptoms. Avoiding all beverages containing caffeine and eliminating all foods containing dairy products are not necessarily helpful for all individuals with IBS. Consuming a high-fiber diet may be beneficial for those with constipation-predominant IBS, but may actually worsen symptoms for those with diarrhea-predominant IBS.

Question 3

Which symptom must be present for a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?&#10;A) Abdominal pain&#10;B) Bloating&#10;C) Constipation&#10;D) Diarrhea

Accepted Answer

Abdominal pain is a key symptom that must be present for a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), according to the Rome IV criteria. Other symptoms like bloating, constipation, and diarrhea can occur in IBS but are not required for diagnosis.

Deck 121: Irritable Bowel Syndrome