Symptoms

1. Abdominal pain : Cramping, tenderness, or discomfort in the abdomen

2. Bloating : Feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen

3. Changes in bowel movements : Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two

4. Changes in stool appearance : Mucus, undigested food, or blood in the stool

5. Urgency : Sudden, intense need to have a bowel movement

6. Incomplete evacuation : Feeling of not fully emptying the bowels

Causes and Risk Factors

1. Genetics : Family history of IBS

2. Gut motility : Abnormal movement of food through the digestive system

3. Hypersensitivity : Increased sensitivity to food, stress, or hormones

4. Stress : Physical or emotional stress

5. Hormonal changes : Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels

6. Food intolerance : Lactose, gluten, or other food intolerances

Diagnosis

1. Medical history : Review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle

2. Physical examination : Abdominal examination to rule out other conditions

3. Diagnostic tests : Endoscopy, colonoscopy, or imaging studies to rule out other conditions

4. Rome IV criteria : Diagnosis based on symptoms, bowel habits, and abdominal pain

Treatment

1. Dietary changes : Avoid trigger foods, follow a low-FODMAP diet

2. Stress management : Relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing

3. Medications : Antispasmodics, antidepressants, or laxatives

4. Probiotics : Beneficial bacteria to promote gut health

5. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) : Addressing underlying psychological factors

Lifestyle Changes

1. Regular exercise: Physical activity to reduce stress and improve bowel habits

2. Stress management : Yoga, tai chi, or other relaxation techniques

3. Sleep habits : Establishing a regular sleep schedule

4. Hydration : Drinking plenty of water to prevent constipation

5. Food diary : Tracking food intake and symptoms to identify trigger foods