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