Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Overview

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common, long-term disorder affecting how the bowel works, causing abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits without any structural damage. It is a functional disorder — meaning the gut is oversensitive rather than diseased. IBS is managed mainly through diet, lifestyle, and medication; surgery is not a treatment for IBS itself.

Causes

• Oversensitivity of the gut nerves
• Abnormal gut muscle contractions
• Disturbed gut-brain communication
• Changes in gut bacteria
• Following a gut infection (post-infectious IBS)

Risk Factors

• Younger age
• Female gender
• Stress and anxiety
• Previous gut infection
• Family history

Symptoms

Diagnosis

• Clinical assessment based on symptom criteria
• Blood tests to exclude other conditions
• Stool tests
• Colonoscopy if alarm features are present (bleeding, weight loss, older age)
• Coeliac screening

Treatment Options

Surgical Treatment

Recovery

IBS is a chronic condition managed rather than cured. Most patients achieve good symptom control with dietary changes (such as a low-FODMAP diet), stress management, and targeted medication, allowing a normal quality of life.

Prevention

• Identify and avoid trigger foods
• Regular meals and adequate hydration
• Manage stress through exercise and relaxation
• Adequate fibre intake tailored to symptoms
• Regular physical activity

Frequently Asked Questions