Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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Summary

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.
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.

Definition and Facts for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

What Is IBS?

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Calprotectin Stool Test

National Library of Medicine

Colonoscopy: MedlinePlus Health Topic

National Library of Medicine

Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

7 Tips: Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Complementary Health Approaches

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Hypnosis for IBS

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders

IBS Treatment Options

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What You Need To Know

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Medications for IBS

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Peppermint Oil

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Probiotics: What You Need to Know

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Psychological Treatments

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

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