Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), also known as spastic bowel or colitis, is a common digestive condition. IBS is characterized by a group of symptoms, namely crampy abdominal (stomach) pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. It cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be managed by eating certain foods (and avoiding others), reducing stress, and taking certain medications. Women are two to three times more likely than men to have irritable bowel syndrome; however, it is not known what exactly causes this condition.
(Click Irritable Bowel Syndrome for the full eMedTV article, which provides more details about who the condition most often affects, possible signs and symptoms, and various treatment options that are available. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
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