Irritable Bowel Syndrome (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome Overview
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome Causes
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms
- When to Seek Medical Care
- Exams and Tests
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment
- Self-Care at Home
- Medical Treatment
- Medications
- Next Steps
- Prevention
- Outlook
- For More Information
- Web Links
- Synonyms and Keywords
- Authors and Editors
- Viewer Comments: Irritable Bowel Syndrome - How Was Diagnosis Established
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms
Irritable bowel syndrome affects each person differently. The hallmark of IBS is abdominal discomfort or pain. The following symptoms are also common:
- Abdominal cramping and pain that are relieved after bowel movements
- Alternating periods of diarrhea and constipation
- Change in the stool frequency or consistency
- Gassiness (flatulence)
- Passing mucus from the rectum
- Bloating
- Abdominal distension
The following are not symptoms or characteristics of IBS:
- Blood in stools or urine
- Vomiting (rare, though may occasionally accompany nausea)
- Pain or diarrhea that interrupts sleep
- Fever
- Weight loss
Next: When to Seek Medical Care »
Viewer Comments & Reviews
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - How Was Diagnosis Established
The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:
How was the diagnosis of your irritable bowel syndrome established?
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Irritable Bowel Disease »
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional GI disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits in the absence of specific and unique organic pathology.
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