Irritable bowel syndrome, usually called IBS, is a common digestive condition that affects the way the gut functions.
People with IBS can experience repeated abdominal pain or discomfort along with changes in their bowel habits. These changes can include constipation, diarrhoea or a combination of both. (NIDDK)
IBS can affect people differently. Some people mainly experience constipation, while others may have frequent diarrhoea, bloating, gas or abdominal discomfort.
There is also no single cause of IBS that applies to everyone. Researchers believe that several factors may be involved, including changes in how the brain and gut communicate, digestive sensitivity, bowel movement patterns and other factors. (NIDDK)
What Are the Symptoms of IBS?
The main symptoms associated with IBS include:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Changes in bowel habits
- Gas
- A feeling that you have not completely emptied your bowel
- Mucus in the stool
Symptoms can come and go, and their severity can vary over time. (NIDDK)
Not everyone with IBS experiences the same combination of symptoms.
What Causes IBS?
The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood.
IBS is considered a disorder of gut brain interaction. This means that the way the digestive system and brain communicate can influence how the gut functions and how digestive sensations are experienced. (NIDDK)
Several factors may be involved, and these can vary from person to person.
Possible factors include:
- Changes in bowel movement
- Increased sensitivity in the digestive system
- Previous digestive infections
- Food sensitivities or intolerances
- Changes in the gut microbiome
- Stress and other factors affecting the gut brain connection
- Genetic factors
Having one of these factors does not necessarily mean that a person has IBS.
Are There Different Types of IBS?
Yes.
IBS is commonly grouped according to the main pattern of bowel movements.
IBS C
IBS C means IBS with constipation.
Constipation is the main bowel pattern, although other symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain can also occur.
Learn more about IBS C
IBS D
IBS D means IBS with diarrhoea.
Diarrhoea is the main bowel pattern, although abdominal pain, bloating and other digestive symptoms may also occur.
Learn more about IBS D
IBS M
IBS M means IBS with mixed bowel habits.
People with IBS M experience both constipation and diarrhoea.
Learn more about IBS M
These categories are based on patterns of stool consistency and bowel movements. Some people may also have bowel habits that change over time. (NIDDK)
How Is IBS Diagnosed?
IBS is generally diagnosed by looking at a person’s symptoms and their pattern over time.
A healthcare professional may ask about:
- Abdominal pain
- Bowel movements
- Stool consistency
- Bloating
- How long symptoms have been present
- Diet
- Medicines
- Medical history
- Family history
There is not usually one specific test that confirms IBS. Tests may sometimes be used to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. (NIDDK)
NICE guidance recommends considering IBS when symptoms include abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating or a change in bowel habit, alongside other characteristic symptoms. (Nice)
IBS Is Different for Everyone
One of the most important things to understand about IBS is that there is no universal experience.
Two people can both have IBS but have completely different symptoms and triggers.
One person may struggle mainly with constipation. Another may experience diarrhoea. Someone else may be affected most by bloating and abdominal pain.
This is one reason why there is no single diet, supplement or lifestyle change that works for everyone with IBS.
IBS, Diet and Supplements
Diet is an important area of interest for many people with IBS.
Some people find that changing the amount or type of fibre they consume can affect their symptoms. Others explore approaches such as the low FODMAP diet. Different dietary approaches may help different people. (NIDDK)
Supplements are another area that receives a great deal of attention.
Probiotics, fibre supplements, psyllium, PHGG and peppermint oil are among the ingredients commonly discussed in relation to IBS.
However, products and ingredients can differ considerably, and evidence is not the same for every supplement.
At Vitalaya, we look at these individually rather than assuming that one supplement is suitable for everyone.
Explore IBS Supplements
What We Cover at Vitalaya
Vitalaya is building a growing resource focused on IBS and digestive health.
You can explore:
IBS Types
Learn more about IBS C, IBS D and IBS M.
IBS Symptoms
Explore common symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, gas and abdominal pain.
IBS Diet
Learn about dietary approaches, fibre and FODMAPs.
IBS Supplements
Explore probiotics, fibre, psyllium, PHGG, peppermint oil and other supplements.
IBS Ingredients
Understand individual ingredients and the evidence behind them.
IBS Product Reviews
Compare specific products and examine what they contain.
Important Information
Vitalaya provides general health information for educational purposes.
The information on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure IBS or any other medical condition. If you have persistent, severe or concerning digestive symptoms, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
IBS symptoms can overlap with other digestive conditions, so it is important to obtain an appropriate medical assessment rather than relying on self diagnosis. (NIDDK)