Irritable Bowel Syndrome
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition in which the large intestine, or colon, fails to function properly. This condition is sometimes confused with colitis. "An estimated one in six Americans—and twice as many women as men—has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)."* Click here to visit the IBS website and learn more about this syndrome that affects so many people.
What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
Some characteristic symptoms are abdominal pain, distension, more frequent bowel movements, constipation, diarrhea, excessive production of mucus in the colon, flatulence, and nausea.
What causes irritable bowel syndrome?
Some common causes for irritable bowel syndrome include food allergies, a lack of fiber in the diet, and stress. Food allergies sometimes can cause digestive issues as well.
