Signs of Irritable Bowl Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorder in the world, affecting more than 60 million people in the United States alone.

Because IBS does not cause physical changes in your body, it is difficult to diagnose.

Signs

• Experiencing abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas and pain after eating, and finding mucus in your stool are all signs of irritable bowel syndrome.

Diagnosis

• If you experience any of the signs of irritable bowel syndrome, visit your doctor. He may diagnose you with IBS after listening to your symptoms, reviewing your and your family's medical histories, and performing tests to eliminate conditions that cause similar symptoms.

Prevention

• Preventing the signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome requires changing your diet. Increase your fiber intake and keep a log of problem-causing foods so that you can avoid eating them in the future.

Considerations

• Worrying about the signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can actually make them worse. Consider learning stress management techniques so you can avoid exacerbating irritable bowel syndrome attacks.

Misconceptions

• Because many people with irritable bowel syndrome also suffer from anxiety or depression, some people believe IBS is a purely psychological disorder. In reality, irritable bowel syndrome stems from a breakdown in the interactions between the central nervous system and the nervous system of the bowels.