Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder.
It affects the large intestine. IBS is a chronic condition that you'll need to manage long term.
IBS doesn't cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer.
Only a small number of people with IBS have severe signs and symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. More-severe symptoms can be treated with medication and counseling.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of IBS vary. The most common include:
- Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is typically relieved or partially relieved by passing a bowel movement
- Excess gas
- Diarrhea or constipation — sometimes alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation
- Mucus in the stool
See your doctor if you have a persistent change in bowel habits or other signs or symptoms of IBS. They may indicate a more serious condition, such as colon cancer.
More-serious signs and symptoms include:
- Weight loss;
- Diarrhea at night;
- Rectal bleeding;
- Iron deficiency anemia;
- Unexplained vomiting;
- Difficulty swallowing;
- Persistent pain that isn't relieved by passing gas or a bowel movement;
Causes
The precise cause of IBS isn't known. Factors that appear to play a role include: Muscle contractions in the intestine; Abnormalities in the nerves in your digestive system; Inflammation in the intestines; Severe infection; Changes in bacteria in the gut (microflora); Food allergy; Stress; Hormones.
Risk factors
- Age (IBS occurs more frequently in people under age 50);
- Gender. IBS is more common among women;
- Family history;
- Anxiety, depression and other mental health issues are associated with IBS;
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360016
