Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Overview
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects the large intestine, leading to chronic symptoms without structural damage. It impacts quality of life, often causing missed work or school, and links to anxiety or depression. Common worldwide, it involves gut-brain miscommunication.

This illustration highlights IBS-related abdominal pain, showing inflamed colon areas that align with patient experiences of lower belly discomfort.
Symptoms
Key signs include cramping, bloating, gas, and bowel changes—diarrhea, constipation, or both. Pain often worsens after eating and eases post-bowel movement; stools may be loose, hard, or ribbon-like. Symptoms fluctuate over years.
Causes and Diagnosis

Exact causes remain unclear, but factors include hypersensitive gut nerves, stress, and diet. No single test exists; diagnosis uses Rome IV criteria based on symptom patterns. It rules out other conditions via exams.

Management
Focus on symptom relief: adopt low-FODMAP diets, boost soluble fiber, stay hydrated, and exercise. Stress reduction via yoga or therapy helps; medications target pain, diarrhea, or constipation. Probiotics and counseling offer additional support. Long-term lifestyle changes are key.