Irritable bowel syndrome may affect anyone regardless of race or sex. This
condition is extremely common in the United
States, but affect people living in other
countries. However, IBS appears to affect people in the following groups:
IBS affects women more than men
Individuals under the
age of 40
Individuals who
suffer for anxiety or depression
Family history of
irritable bowel syndrome
Individuals who have
lived through traumatic experiences
Individuals who
suffer from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Physicians generally diagnose IBS by evaluating a patient's symptoms. IBS
does not appear on blood test; and is usually diagnosed only after test rule
out other conditions. Symptoms of IBS may be severe or mild. Those who suffer
from mild cases are generally able to relieve discomfort with over-the-counter
medicine. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as stress and exercise may
relieve symptoms. Common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:
Abdominal pain
Abdominal swelling
Diarrhea or
constipation
Abnormal stools (more
than 3 bowel movements a day, and less than 3 bowel movements a week)
Many who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome may also experience:
Pelvic pain
Mucus in stool
Blood in stool
Symptoms of IBS may persist for several years. The condition is very common,
and few seek medical treatment. On average, women are affected by IBS more than
men and symptoms begin to appear between the ages of 20 – 30. Although there is
no cure for IBS, there are medications that can relieve discomfort. Because
irritable bowel syndrome closely resembles other stomach conditions, those who
begin to experience abdominal discomfort should be examined by a doctor to rule
out more serious conditions.