Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a functional disorder. Although it is not entirely clear what causes it, or even what happens in the body, it is known that there is some sort of malfunction in the bowel, gut, or colon. Most people experience it in the large bowel, which is where the fecal matter is located before it is excreted. IBS comes with many different symptoms, but irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea almost always go hand in hand. Other common symptoms include abdominal pain, cramping, gas, bloating, and constipation. Most people experience quite a few of these symptoms at the same time.

Causes Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) And Diarrhea

Unfortunately, it isn't known what causes IBS. There are also no diagnostic tests to confirm it. However, there are many theories about what the possible causes. For instance, it has been found that people with IBS have more sensitive bowel muscles and nerves. This causes the bowels to contract too often, particularly after a meal, which can lead to all the various symptoms. It is also important to remember that while the condition can have a detrimental effect on your overall quality of life, it is not damaging to your physical health. You are also not at a greater risk of developing cancer or other illnesses.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) And Diarrhea And Other Symptoms

Different people experience IBS in various ways. Some, for instance, feel constantly constipated, whereas others have diarrhea. Others still alternate between the two. Most people also experience abdominal discomfort, but at different spots and in different levels of intensity. Some people experience bloating in their lower stomach, others in their upper parts, and others not at all. This makes it more difficult to define and diagnose the condition. However, if you do feel you are experiencing the symptoms of IBS, you should seek medical attention. In so doing, your physician will be able to rule out any other condition.

The most common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are:

  • Abdominal pain that usually goes away if you manage to open your bowels.
  • Chronic constipation or diarrhea, or a combination of the two.
  • Whitish mucus appearing in the stool.
  • Feeling like you still need to 'go' after opening your bowel.
  • Having a bloated and swollen abdomen, even without eating first.

Some tests can be completed in order to check whether or not you have IBS. Usually, a lower gastrointestinal series or a colonoscopy will be performed. This is not to diagnose IBS, however, as it cannot be diagnosed at all. Rather, these tests are in place to rule out other, more serious conditions. When everything has been ruled out, an IBS diagnosis is usually given.

In terms of treatment, it is recommended that you keep both a food and feeling diary. This is because many people find that certain foods cause them to have flare ups. Additionally, feelings of stress will usually make IBS worse, so monitoring this also helps. Overall, it is about making lifestyle changes to help you avoid future flare ups.