Irritable Bowel Syndrome Causes

The cause of irritable bowel syndrome is currently unknown. IBS is thought to result from an interplay of abnormal gastrointestinal (GI) tract movements, increased awareness of normal bodily functions, and a change in the nervous system communication between the brain and the GI tract. Abnormal movements of the colon, whether too fast or too slow, are seen in some, but not all, people who have IBS.

Irritable bowel syndrome has also developed after episodes of gastroenteritis.

It has been suggested that IBS is caused by dietary allergies or food sensitivities, but this has never been proven.

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome may worsen during periods of stress or menses, but these factors are unlikely to be the cause that leads to development of IBS.