Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of the intestines. It causes belly pain, cramping or bloating, and diarrhea or constipation. It affects one in five Americans and the incidence is increasing each year. There are no particular test for this condition and is usually diagnosed by eliminaton. You must have abdominal pain and discomfort lasting at least 12 weeks.

You also need to have at least two of the following: (1) A change in the frequency or consistency of your stool. (2) Straining, urgency or a feeling that you can’t empty your bowels completely. (3) Mucus in your stool. (4) Bloating or abdominal distension. There are other serious condtions that can cause similar symptoms, so it you have any of the following you need a thorough medical evaluation.

(1) Onset after age 50 y.o. (2) Weight loss. (3) Fever. (4) Recurrent vomiting. Factors that affect/cause this condition include diet, stress, and a previous infection in the digestive tract. Next week we will consider what you can do to prevent, reduce symptoms or eliminate this condition. (From MayoClinic.com)