The Digestive System

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disorder in which the intestines do not
work normally. Other names for IBS are spastic colon or functional bowel disease.
The consequences of the malfunction of the intestines are is abdominal pain that is
associated with constipation, diarrhea, or constipation alternating with diarrhea. The
disorder affects at least 10% of the population of North America.

IBS Symptoms

The hallmark of IBS is the presence of abdominal pain that is associated with
constipation, diarrhea or both. The pain and alterations in bowel habit may be mild
and not interfere with normal activities or they may be severe and limit activities.
Frequent diarrhea can lead to the need to constantly be near to a bathroom.
IBS Causes

The exact cause of IBS is not known. It is believed to be caused by abnormal activity
of the muscles of the intestines and/or the nerves that control the muscles. This can
lead to abnormal patterns of contraction of the intestinal muscles that result in pain,
constipation, or diarrhea. Secretion of fluid into the intestine also might be increased.
Abnormalities of the intestinal muscles cannot be seen even under the microscope. If
the pattern of intestinal motility is studied, it may be abnormal.

Who’s at Risk for IBS?

IBS is more common in women than men, almost twice as common. Although the
symptoms can begin at any age, they most commonly begin in people in their 20s.
There seems to be an increased prevalence of IBS among relatives of individuals with
IBS. Anxiety or stress do not cause IBS, but they make the symptoms of IBS worse.