Many people who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) remain undiagnosed and unaware that their symptoms are related to a medically recognized disorder. IBS is a condition in which communication between the gut and the brain gets jumbled up. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of IBS and when you should talk to your doctor.
IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. It can cause:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Cramping
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Mucus in your stool
- Changes in bowel movement consistency or frequency
These symptoms can be disruptive to your quality of life and are associated with:
- Missed time from work and social events
- Depression
- Anxiety
IBS risk factors
While the cause of IBS is still unknown, you may be at higher risk of IBS if you:
- Are female (it’s twice as common in women)
- Are 45 or younger (it’s most often diagnosed in this age group)
- Experienced abuse or stressful life circumstances, particularly in childhood
- Had a prior severe gastrointestinal infection
- Have nervous system abnormalities
- Have changes in your gut microbes
- Have strong muscle contractions in your intestines
IBS can be triggered by:
- Stress
- Certain foods and beverages, such as wheat, dairy, cabbage, carbonated drinks, beans and citrus fruits (though triggers vary from person to person)
IBS diagnosis
We don’t have a test to diagnose IBS, but make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and by ruling out other health conditions, like colorectal cancer.
Your health care provider may use Rome criteria to make a diagnosis. This criterion includes:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort at least once a week for the last three months
- Changes in bowel movement consistency or frequency
How to manage IBS
You can help alleviate and prevent IBS symptoms by:
- Drinking enough water
- Exercising regularly
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding foods and drinks that cause flareups
- Eating high-fiber foods
- Practicing stress management techniques
Your primary care provider may recommend that you meet with a dietitian to determine which foods may be triggers and how to get enough fiber and nutrients in your diet.
Your provider may also prescribe medications and supplements, such as:
- Fiber supplements
- Laxatives
- Anticholinergic medications to relieve painful bowel spasms
- Pain medications
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Antidepressants
When to see your health care provider for IBS
You should see your primary care provider if you frequently experience the symptoms mentioned above, as they can sometimes (but not always) be signs of more serious conditions like colorectal cancer.
Other serious symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent pain that doesn’t get better when you have a bowel movement or pass gas
- Diarrhea at night
- Rectal bleeding
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Unexplained weight loss
- Unexplained vomiting
- Trouble swallowing
To find a provider near you, visit pardeehospital.org.
