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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (cont.)

When to Seek Medical Care

Irritable bowel syndrome affects each person differently. If a person has any of the symptoms, he or she should contact a doctor for further advice.

If a person has signs and symptoms of IBS, or if a person with IBS has unusual symptoms, a doctor should be consulted. Go to a hospital emergency department if problems are severe and/or come on suddenly.

Symptoms inconsistent with IBS include fever, bloody stools or urine, vomiting, black or tarry stools, pain or diarrhea severe enough to interrupt sleep, and weight loss. These symptoms require the attention of a doctor.



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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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