What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common problem with the intestines. In people with IBS, the intestines squeeze too hard or not hard enough and cause food to move too quickly or too slowly through the intestines. IBS usually begins around age 20 and is more common in women.

IBS is also called functional bowel syndrome, irritable colon, spastic bowel and spastic colon. It's not the same as inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis.

What are the symptoms of IBS?
The box to the right lists common symptoms of IBS.

The symptoms may get worse when you're under stress, such as when you travel, attend social events or change your daily routine. Your symptoms may also get worse if you don't eat enough healthy foods or after you've eaten a big meal. Some people are bothered by certain foods. Women who have IBS may notice more frequent symptoms during their menstrual periods.

How is IBS treated?
IBS has no cure, but you can do things to relieve symptoms. Treatment may involve

• diet changes
• medicine
• stress relief

You may have to try a few things to see what works best for you. Your doctor can help you find the right treatment plan.

diet changes
Some foods and drinks make IBS worse.

Foods and drinks that may cause or worsen symptoms include

• fatty foods, like french fries
• milk products, like cheese or ice cream
• chocolate
• alcohol
• caffeinated drinks, like coffee and some sodas
• carbonated drinks, like soda

To find out which foods are a problem, keep a diary that tracks

• what you eat during the day
• what symptoms you have
• when symptoms occur
• what foods always make you feel sick

Take your notes to the doctor to see if certain foods trigger your symptoms or make them worse. If so, you should avoid eating these foods or eat less of them.

Some foods make IBS better.

Fiber may reduce the constipation associated with IBS because it makes stool soft and easier to pass. However, some people with IBS who have more sensitive nerves may feel a bit more abdominal discomfort after adding more fiber to their diet. Fiber is found in foods such as breads, cereals, beans, fruits, and vegetables.

Examples of foods with fiber include

Add foods with fiber to your diet a little at a time to let your body get used to them. Too much fiber at once can cause gas, which can trigger symptoms in a person with IBS.

Your doctor may ask you to add more fiber to your diet by taking a fiber pill or drinking water mixed with a special high-fiber powder.

Medicine
The doctor may give you medicine to help with symptoms.
 

•  Laxatives treat constipation. Many kinds of laxatives are available. Your doctor can help you find the laxative that is right for you.
   

• Antispasmodics control spasms in the colon and help ease abdominal pain.
   

• Antidepressants, even in lower doses than are used for treating depression, can help people with IBS. They can help reduce the abdominal discomfort or pain associated with IBS and, depending on the type chosen, may help the diarrhea or constipation.

Stress Relief
Learning to reduce stress can help with IBS. With less stress, you may find you have less cramping and pain. You may also find it easier to manage your symptoms.