Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can affect people differently but all will have symptoms involving the intestines and bowels. Today we are much more willing to discuss our bowel movements and with many surveys being conducted in which patients as well as ordinary members of the public are questioned about their bowel habits we have a better understanding at what ‘normal’ is and the general frequency of bowel movements a day so as to understand more the commons symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Common IBS Symptoms

• Diarrhoea – this includes feelings of urgency as well as watery stools
• Constipation – this tends to be more common in women
• Both diarrhea and constipation
• Recurrent abdominal pain and cramping
• Slimy stools
• Feeling that you haven’t emptied your bowels fully
• Gas and bloating
• Indigestion

Generally most people with an irritable bowel will have either diarrhoea or constipation (or both) with some type of abdominal pain or discomfort. Sometimes the pain can be relieved by a bowel movement or if you pass wind.

These symptoms are also common with celiac disease and other digestive disorders so it is important that you see a doctor to get a proper IBS diagnosis. The causes of irritable bowel syndrome are not fully understood although stress, eating & diet play an important role. It is common among in men and women.

When IBS symptoms are bad it can often restrict social activities, cause you to miss days of work and create real anxiety about going out anywhere.