IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the stomach and intestines. IBS is a chronic condition that you’ll need to manage long term. The exact cause of IBS is unknown.

Only a small number of people with IBS have severe symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. More-severe symptoms can be treated with medication and counseling.

Symptoms of IBS vary; the most common include:

• Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is related to passing a bowel movement

• Changes in appearance of bowel movement

• Changes in how often you are having a bowel movement

More-serious symptoms include:

• Diarrhea at night

• Rectal bleeding

• Iron deficiency anemia

• Unexplained vomiting

• Pain that isn’t relieved by passing gas or a bowel movement