Dr. Josyann Abisaab

Josyann Abisaab: Irritable Bowel Syndrome-Some Facts

IBS is a Common Problem

It is estimated that about 20 percent of Americans have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, also referred to as IBS. The syndrome is also sometimes called Spastic Colitis, Spastic Colon, Spastic Bowl, or Functional Bowel Syndrome.

Since IBS involves bodily processes which are not properly functioning, this disorder can be placed in the category of illnesses which are known as functional disorders. Discovering the true origin of this problem is notoriously difficult due to the problem of making an accurate diagnosis using normal methods.

Unknown Origin

IBS has not been linked to infections, any inflammation or structural defect. Both x-rays and blood tests do not show the presence of IBS in the patient’s body.

Symptoms of IBS include diarrhea, cramps, pain, and an abundance of gas, bloating and nausea. If a person has these symptoms over a period of time it is recommended that he or she be examined by a physician.

A doctor will try and ascertain whether or not the symptoms do indeed point to IBS by a thorough questioning of the patient, asking questions about eating habits, how long the problem has existed, and getting a complete medical history. If the doctor sees certain patterns he/she might conclude that the cause is IBS.

Some Foods Bad, Others Good

Although foods in and of themselves do not cause IBS, the ingestion of certain foods can exacerbate the symptoms. It is recommended that people with IBS avoid foods like dairy products, chocolate, high-fat foods, alcohol, caffeine and carbonated drinks. Keep a diary of what you eat and how you feel after. This is an excellent way to find out which foods cause the most trouble after eating.

Other foods might actually help to relieve some of symptoms of IBS. Fiber-rich foods such as apples, peaches and other fruits; or vegetables including broccoli and cauliflower can sometimes be quite helpful in reducing the symptoms.

Dr. Josyann Abisaab is an emergency room physician working at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

Josyann Abisaab:Symptoms of Reyes Syndrome

Reyes Syndrome is an illness that can be difficult to diagnose, but unless Reyes is treated early, it can prove to be deadly. As of now, the cause of Reyes Syndrome is not known, but research has deduced a link between Reyes and aspirin and other medications containing salicylate, whether they are prescription, over the counter or topical ointments.

Children Most at Risk

Reyes Syndrome can affect anyone at any age but is most common in children under the age of 18, and particularly dangerous for infants and babies. The illness attacks all the body’s organs, with an especially devastating effect on the liver and brain. Reyes is frequently misdiagnosed and is often mistaken as encephalitis, meningitis, diabetes, drug overdose, poisoning, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or a psychiatric disorder.

Prevalent in Winter

The most common months for Reyes to appear are January through March, the months when the flu is most frequent. This is because Reyes is also associated with the patient just recovering from a previous infection, like a cold, the flu or chicken pox. When the flu or chicken pox strikes in epidemic numbers, there is also a spike in the number of cases of Reyes syndrome. Because there is also a connection between Reyes and treatment with aspirin, aspirin should always be avoided during viral infections, and a substitute pain and fever reducer should be used instead.

Early Diagnoses Crucial

When Reyes syndrome is diagnosed early and treated quickly, the chances of a complete recovery are high. It is important therefore, to be diligent when recovering from a viral illness and be on the lookout for symptoms of Reyes Syndrome. If you believe there is a chance of the patient having Reyes, then go to the emergency room, where physicians such as Dr. Josyann Abisaab will diagnose and treat the illness.

Symptoms in the Stages of Reyes Syndrome:

Stage I

•    Persistent or continuous vomiting
•    Signs of brain dysfunction:
•    Listlessness
•    Loss of pep and energy
•    Drowsiness

Stage II

•    Personality changes:
•    Irritability
•    Aggressive behavior
•    Disorientation:
•    Confusion
•    Irrational behavior
•    Combative
•    Delirium, convulsions, coma