Irritable Bowel Syndrome

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It’s a functional gastrointestinal condition, meaning it impacts how your gut moves and processes food, but it doesn’t cause visible damage to the digestive tract.

IBS is common and can affect people of all ages, though it often begins before age 50. While it’s not life-threatening, it can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities if not managed properly.

What Causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS is still not fully understood. However, experts believe it may be linked to several factors, including:

• Irregular muscle contractions in the intestines
• Increased sensitivity in the gut
• Changes in gut bacteria (microbiome)
• Stress and mental health conditions like anxiety
• Infections or inflammation in the digestive tract
  
  

Some people notice symptoms begin after a stomach infection or a stressful life event.

IBS Symptoms

IBS symptoms can vary widely, and people often experience flares followed by periods of improvement. The most common symptoms include:

• Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
• Bloating or swelling in the belly
• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation or both)
• Gas or excessive flatulence
• Mucus in the stool
• Feeling like you haven’t completely emptied your bowels

IBS is classified into types based on the dominant symptom:

• IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant)
• IBS-C (constipation-predominant)
• IBS-M (mixed diarrhea and constipation)

How Is IBS Diagnosed?

• There’s no single test for IBS. Instead, your provider may:
• Ask about your symptoms, lifestyle and medical history
• Perform a physical exam
• Order blood tests, stool tests or imaging to rule out other conditions
• Use diagnostic criteria like the Rome IV guidelines (based on symptoms over time)

You may be diagnosed with IBS if you have ongoing abdominal pain for at least three months, along with changes in bowel movements.

Treatment for IBS

IBS treatment depends on your symptoms and how severe they are. Many people find relief with a combination of dietary changes, stress management and medication.

At-Home Care

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Keep a food diary to identify trigger foods
• Try a low FODMAP diet (under guidance from a doctor or dietitian)
• Drink plenty of water
• Exercise regularly to help with digestion and stress

Medical Treatments

Your health care provider may recommend:

• Fiber supplements (for constipation)
• Anti-diarrheal medications
• Antispasmodic drugs to reduce cramping
• Probiotics to support healthy gut bacteria
• Prescription medications for more severe cases
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other stress-reducing techniques

How to Prevent IBS Flare-Ups

While IBS can’t be prevented entirely, you can reduce how often flare-ups happen by:

• Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms (like dairy, caffeine, fried foods or artificial sweeteners)
• Eating on a regular schedule
• Managing stress through mindfulness, therapy or relaxation exercises
• Staying active with regular physical movement
• Getting enough sleep

If you’re dealing with stomach issues that don’t go away, or that keep coming back, talk to your primary care provider. IBS can be frustrating, but with the right support and treatment plan, you can live a full and active life.

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