Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic (ongoing) problem with the large intestine. IBS is not a disease. It is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that typically happen together. Common IBS symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea or constipation, or a combination of both diarrhea and constipation. IBS may cause physical discomfort and emotional distress, but it does not cause damage to the large intestine. It's not the same as inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis, which do damage the intestine.
IBS is very common and occurs more often in women. IBS also has been called functional bowel syndrome, irritable colon, spastic bowel, and spastic colon.
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Common symptoms of IBS include:
Symptoms are different for each person. You may have some or even all of the symptoms listed above. Most people have mild symptoms, but some people have severe symptoms that affect their day-to-day lives.
Doctors describe IBS as a “functional gastrointestinal disorder.” This means that it is caused by changes in how the gastrointestinal (digestive) system works, but no one knows exactly what causes these changes to occur. Most doctors and researchers believe that IBS is caused by a combination of health problems. Possible health problems that may cause or worsen IBS include:
Your doctor probably will do a physical exam and ask you about your medical history. Before your appointment, keep a record of your symptoms and when they occur. Share this record with your doctor at your appointment. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may also need to do some tests, such as a blood test, stool test, X-ray, or colonoscopy, just to make sure that your symptoms aren't caused by something else.
There is no cure for IBS. The best way to help control your symptoms is to:
Fiber can be helpful because it helps improve how the intestines work. There are 2 types of fiber:
Increase the fiber in your diet slowly. Some people feel bloated and have gas if they increase their fiber intake too quickly. Gas and bloating usually improve as you get used to eating more fiber. The best way to increase your fiber intake is eat a wide variety of high-fiber foods. For more information, read the handout, "Fiber: How to Increase the Amount in Your Diet."
If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe medicine to help you manage or lessen your symptoms. For example, if your main symptom is pain, your doctor may prescribe antispasmodic medicines such as hyoscyamine or dicyclomine to reduce cramping. Heating pads and hot baths can also be comforting.
If diarrhea is a frequent problem, medicine such as loperamide (brand name: Imodium) may help. If constipation is a problem, your doctor may prescribe a laxative or a medicine called lubiprostone.
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a tranquilizer or sedative, an antidepressant, or an antibiotic. Your doctor may also recommend a probiotic or fiber supplement.
No. While IBS will probably recur throughout your life, it won't get worse. It doesn't cause cancer or require surgery, and it won't shorten your life.
IBS may have caused you to avoid doing certain things, like going out or going to work or school. While it may take some time for your efforts to pay off, you may find new freedom by following a plan that includes a healthy diet, learning new ways to deal with your stress, and avoiding foods that may make your symptoms worse.
International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD). About Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Accessed August 16, 2012
The Merck Manual. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Accessed August 16, 2012
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Accessed August 16, 2012
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff