Understanding the Symptoms of IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a long-term digestive condition that affects the large intestine. Bloating, stomach discomfort, constipation, or diarrhea are just a few of the symptoms that describe this condition. Individual differences in symptom severity can cause some persons to feel just minor discomfort while others may experience incapacitating pain.
Unlike other stomach problems such as acid reflux, gastritis, or stomach ulcers, IBS does not cause any structural damage to the digestive system. Instead, it is a functional disorder that occurs due to abnormal contractions of the muscles in the intestine.
The primary symptoms of IBS can be quite distressing and affect a person’s quality of life. Bloating is a common symptom where the abdomen feels full and distended. Abdominal pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain. Constipation and diarrhea are also common symptoms of IBS, with some people alternating between the two.
