IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): Fast Facts
Reviewed By:
David Friedel, M.D., AGA
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the failure of the large intestine to operate as it should.
- IBS occurs in women more often than it does in men.
- In people with the condition, the large intestine appears to be more sensitive and reactive than normal, resulting in a collection of chronic symptoms that commonly occur after eating or when under stress.
- The most common symptom of IBS is abdominal pain associated with diarrhea, constipation or both.
- Some people experience diarrhea-predominant IBS or constipation-predominant IBS, but most alternate between symptoms of diarrhea and constipation.
- Other symptoms of IBS include gas, bloating, cramping and indigestion.
- The abdominal pain associated with IBS is often relieved by a bowel movement.
- Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common disorders diagnosed by doctors in the United States.
- It is estimated that one in five Americans have it.
- The condition typically begins around age 20.
- Examination of individuals with IBS reveals no abnormality of or damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
- IBS does not cause cancer or other serious medical conditions. It is not related to inflammatory bowel diseases that damage the digestive tract, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Because there is no damage to digestive tract tissue that might indicate IBS or test that can detect the condition, a doctor must diagnose IBS based on symptoms alone.
- A medical history and physical examination can identify other possible causes for the symptoms of IBS, and various imaging or lab tests may be conducted to rule out other possible medical conditions.
- No single cause for IBS has been identified, although diet, stress and anxiety appear to play a role in triggering symptoms.
- There is no cure for the condition, so treatment consists of controlling its symptoms.
- Avoiding particular foods that aggravate symptoms and adding more fiber to the diet is a common treatment strategy.
- Various medications can be used to prevent or lessen symptoms.
- Activities that reduce stress levels may also help prevent symptoms.
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