Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). IBS commonly causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea and constipation. It is a chronic condition that you will need to manage for long term.

Eventhough signs and symptoms are uncomfortable, IBS — unlike ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which are forms of inflammatory bowel disease — does not cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer.

Only a small number of people with IBS have severe signs and symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. Others will need medication and counseling. Symptoms may include abdominal distension, abdominal pain, bloating, change in stool consistency, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, mucus in stool, straining to have a bowel movement, watery stool etc.

Your doctor may be able to help you find ways to relieve symptoms as well as rule out colon conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. Your doctor can also help you avoid possible complications from problems such as chronic diarrhoea.