Causes: Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common bowel disorder that disrupts the normal function of the digestive tract. The severity and symptoms of IBS vary from person to person, but below are some of the most typical symptoms:

• Constipation, diarrhea, or both
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Gas and/or abdominal bloating
• Mucus in the stool
• Feeling of not having finished a bowel movement

The cause of IBS is not known, but symptoms may be triggered or worsened by stress, certain foods, medication, exercise, or hormonal changes (many women report increased symptoms during their menstrual periods).

There is no known cure for IBS, but you can minimize attacks by identifying and avoiding your personal triggers.