Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Signs & Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a colon disorder in the same medical family as Crohn's disease and colitis. Unlike its peers, IBS is not a degenerative disease and does not precondition an individual to intestinal cancer. There is currently no cure for IBS, and doctors have yet to identify the cause of the disorder. However, it is widely agreed that stress and poor diet contribute to the condition and trigger episodes.

Constipation and/or Diarrhea

• One of the signs of IBS is frequent and persistent constipation or diarrhea, with many sufferers experience alternating periods of both.

Abnormal Thirst

• Increased thirst is a common symptom of IBS, as the prolonged periods of diarrhea significantly reduce fluids in the body. Thirst also accompanies bouts of constipation, as the stationary stool absorbs much of the fluid in the colon.

Bloating

• Bloating is a sign that is associated with both forms of bowel movement disruption.

Cramping

• During an episode of diarrhea, individuals often experience intestinal cramping that can range from uncomfortable to very painful.

Flatulence

• Increased and loud flatulence is a characteristic symptom of IBS, in both episodes of constipation and diarrhea.