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Signs and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects between 25 and 45 million Americans, mostly women. IBS is alternatively referred to as “spastic colon” and is a type of gastrointestinal disorder that mainly results in discomforts experienced in the large intestine. Those affected are more likely to experience mild to moderate symptoms from their late teens to their early 40s. Causes There is no exact cause of IBS since the condition is a result of not one but multiple digestive problems, leading to the initial visible signs of this syndrome: Common infections like gastroenteritis Muscle spasms or contractions A surplus of bacteria in the intestines Poor signal coordination between the brain and the intestines Certain dietary allergies and food sensitivities Hormonal imbalance in the body IBS is classified into three categories with varying symptoms, based on different patterns of bowel movements; IBS with constipation, IBS with diarrhea, and IBS with mixed bowel movements. These categories will all exhibit different characteristics of the progressive syndrome. Following are common signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Abdominal pain and cramps Whitish mucus observed while passing stools Bloating and gas caused due to passing gas from the digestive system Unexplained changes in bowel habits Incontinence, i.e., lack of control over urination or defecation Backache Lethargy Apart from the visible signs and symptoms, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention in case you experience the following discomforts that, if left unchecked, can lead to health complications like colon cancer: