IBS Facts

7 Facts About IBS

1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain or discomfort and bloating that is typically associated with a change in bowel movements.

2. In the United States, IBS affects as many as 20% of the population. Approximately 60 to 65% of IBS sufferers are female; 35 to 40% are male.

3. IBS symptoms may seem similar to other gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) and celiac disease.

4. IBS can only be diagnosed by a healthcare practitioner.

5. The exact cause of IBS is not known. Symptoms may be related to a disturbance in the interaction between the gut, brain, and nervous system that changes the regulation of bowel motor or sensory function. Because of the connection between the brain and the gut, symptoms can be made worse or triggered by stress.

6. Many people with IBS suffer without treatment because they feel too embarrassed to talk to their doctor.

7. Treatments for IBS focus on the management of symptoms.