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Functional GI

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common disorder of gut–brain interaction causing recurrent abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both), without structural disease.

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Symptoms

  • Recurrent abdominal pain linked to bowel movements
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating patterns
  • Bloating and abdominal distension
  • Mucus in the stool
  • Symptoms often triggered by meals or stress

Possible causes

  • Altered gut–brain signaling and visceral hypersensitivity
  • Microbiome differences
  • Post-infectious IBS after acute gastroenteritis
  • Stress and psychosocial contributors that amplify symptoms

How we diagnose

  • Symptom-based Rome IV criteria
  • Selective testing to rule out celiac disease, IBD, thyroid dysfunction, or lactose intolerance
  • Colonoscopy if red-flag features exist (bleeding, weight loss, age > 50, family history)

Treatment options

  • Dietary strategies including low-FODMAP under supervision
  • Antispasmodics, secretagogues, or motility agents based on subtype
  • Gut-directed cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy
  • Peppermint oil, soluble fiber, and probiotic trials in select cases

Lifestyle & prevention

  • Regular meal timing and adequate hydration
  • Sleep, exercise, and stress-management practices
  • Symptom journaling to identify individual triggers