Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal disorder that affects the bowel (colon). Irritable bowel syndrome is a collection of symptoms that occur when the nerves and muscles in a person's bowel do not work like they should. With irritable bowel syndrome, a person's bowel is extra sensitive, causing discomfort and changes in bowel activity. Abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort are the main symptoms of IBS. Irritable bowel syndrome can last a long time. Irritable bowel syndrome is not a disease and it does not cause cancer. Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder meaning the bowel doesn't work as it should. The cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not known, and there is no cure for irritable bowel syndrome. Up to one in five Americans has irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome often begins before the age of 35, but it can start at any age. There are a whole range of foods that tend to make IBS worse including dairy products, chocolate, alchohol, carbonated sodas and more. High fiber diets tend to help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.