9 Signs and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

1)The most common symptom of IBS is lower abdominal pain that is less severe after a bowel movement. Dietary modifications, stress-reducing therapies and certain medications can help reduce pain. 2)Frequent, loose stools are common in IBS, and are a symptom of the diarrhea-predominant type. Stools may also contain mucus. 3)Constipation is very common. However, abdominal pain that improves after a bowel movement and a sensation of incomplete bowel movements after passing stool are signs of IBS. 4)About 20% of patients with IBS experience alternating periods of diarrhea and constipation. Throughout each phase, they continue to experience pain relieved by bowel movements. 5)IBS changes the time stool remains in your intestines. This changes the amount of water in stool, giving it a range from loose and watery to hard and dry. 6)Gas and bloating are some of the most common and frustrating symptoms of IBS. Following a low-FODMAPs diet can help reduce bloating. 7)Many people with IBS report specific trigger foods. Some common triggers include FODMAPs and stimulants, such as caffeine. 8)Those with IBS are more fatigued and report less refreshing sleep compared to those without it. Fatigue and poor sleep quality are also related to more severe gastrointestinal symptoms. 9)IBS can produce a vicious cycle of digestive symptoms that increase anxiety and anxiety that increases digestive symptoms. Tackling anxiety can help reduce other symptoms. Symptoms of IBS can be triggered by: Food. The role of food allergy or intolerance in IBS isn't fully understood. A true food allergy rarely causes IBS. But many people have worse IBS symptoms when they eat or drink certain foods or beverages, including wheat, dairy products, citrus fruits, beans, cabbage, milk and carbonated drinks. Stress. Most people with IBS experience worse or more frequent signs and symptoms during periods of increased stress. But while stress may aggravate symptoms, it doesn't cause them. Hormones. Women are twice as likely to have IBS, which might indicate that hormonal changes play a role. Many women find that signs and symptoms are worse during or around their menstrual periods.