Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Frequently Asked Questions
None Available At This Time
Description
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder commonly characterized by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. While IBS does not lead to serious diseases, it can cause discomfort and distress, and in some people can become disabling.
While no cure has been found for IBS, there are many options available to treat particular symptoms. Some of these include ways to manage stress, and to make changes to your diet.
Sometimes medications can play an important part in relieving symptoms of IBS. Because symptoms differ, and because medications affect people differently, you must work with your doctor to find the best combination of medicine, diet and support to control your IBS symptoms.
(Image used by permission of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health.)
Sources of Additional Information
- The American College of Gastroenterology
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- (An overview of the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of IBS.)
- American Gastroenterological Association
- Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- (An overview of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of IBS.)
- National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- (An overview of the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of IBS.)
Free Pamphlet From NDDIC: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
