Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem that affects the large intestine. It can cause abdominal cramping, bloating, and a change in bowel habits. Some people with the disorder have constipation. Some have diarrhea. Others go back and forth between the two. Although IBS can cause a great deal of discomfort, it does not harm the intestines.
IBS is common. It affects about twice as many women as men and is most often found in people younger than 45 years. No one knows the exact cause of IBS. There is no specific test for it. Your doctor may run tests to be sure you don’t have other diseases. These tests may include stool sampling tests, blood tests, and x-rays. Your doctor may also do a test called a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. Most people diagnosed with IBS can control their symptoms with diet, stress management, probiotics, and medicine.
NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine.
Information pulled from the Irritable Bowel Syndrome page.
MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
National Library of Medicine
National Library of Medicine
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Since there are different underlying causes of IBS-C, there is no single treatment approach that is right for everyone. Download this form, answer the following questions about your symptoms and then share this form with your healthcare provider so that you and your healthcare provider can determine whether your current treatment is right for you, or if it makes sense to try a different approach.
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