Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem of the large intestine. It can cause abdominal cramping, bloating and changes in bowel habits:
- some people have constipation;
- some have diarrhea;
- others alternate between the two.
IBS can be very uncomfortable, but it does not harm the intestines.
Who gets it
IBS is common. It affects about twice as many women as men, and is most often found in people younger than 45.
Diagnosis
The exact cause is unknown, and there is no specific test. Your doctor may run tests to rule out other diseases:
- stool tests;
- blood tests;
- x-rays;
- a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.
Control
Most people with IBS can control their symptoms with diet, stress management, probiotics and medicine.
Sources
Based on "Irritable Bowel Syndrome," MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, drawing on the NIH National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; a work of the United States government in the public domain.
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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