Get the Facts: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What You Need to Know

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions, affecting 10 to 15% of people in the United States. Symptoms can feel frustrating and embarrassing, especially when medical tests appear normal, and answers are hard to find.

If you are living with IBS, take heart. Although it is typically a chronic condition, symptoms can improve significantly with proper management and follow-up care.

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning symptoms occur because the gut is not working as it should — not because of inflammation or visible structural damage. This is why imaging tests and lab results may look normal even when you have symptoms.

For people with IBS, the digestive tract may be more sensitive, move too quickly or too slowly, or overreact to certain triggers. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go. Common symptoms include:

Abdominal pain or cramping — often related to bowel movements
Bloating
Constipation, diarrhea or both
Excessive gas

Factors That May Play a Role

“Recent research suggests that IBS symptoms may be linked to hypersensitivity of the nerves in the gastrointestinal tract. Another possible factor is poor communication between the gut nerves, brain and nervous system.”

Katherine Freeman, MD, Gastroenterologist at Catholic Health

Genetics, early-life stress, infections, and food sensitivities may also play a role.

Types of IBS

IBS is not one-size-fits-all. Providers often classify it based on bowel habits:

IBS with constipation (IBS-C)
IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)
IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)

Symptoms can shift over time, which is one reason ongoing care matters.

Diagnosis Can Be Challenging

Physicians do not diagnose IBS the way they do a broken bone or infection, Dr. Freeman said. “There are currently no laboratory or imaging tests that confirm IBS,” she explained. “Instead, physicians diagnose the condition based on symptoms, medical history and the absence of other causes.”

Getting a diagnosis is often the first step toward relief.

The Importance of Knowing What Triggers Your Symptoms

IBS symptoms often flare in response to specific triggers. Identifying those triggers is one of the most effective ways to reduce flare-ups and regain a sense of control over your symptoms.

Common triggers include:

Stress, anxiety or depression
Certain foods or eating patterns
Hormonal changes
Changes in your routine

Consider keeping a log to record your symptoms over time. Identifying patterns can help you recognize your triggers.

Treatment Options and Lifestyle Changes Can Help

No single treatment works for everyone, so it may take time to find out what works best for you. Your physician may recommend:

Lifestyle adjustments, including diet and exercise changes
Stress management techniques
Medications to manage specific symptoms
Strategies to calm the gut-brain connection

Physicians who specialize in digestive health (gastroenterologists) stay up-to-date on new IBS treatments and strategies. Follow-up appointments every six to 12 months can help ensure you get the support and care you need. Learn more about diet, foods, and eating strategies that may help with your IBS symptoms.

Red Flags That Could Indicate Another Concern

While IBS symptoms can change over time, certain signs are not typical of IBS and may indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt evaluation.

Rectal bleeding
Iron-deficiency anemia
Unexplained vomiting
Unintentional weight loss

If you experience any of these symptoms, do not delay. Call your primary care physician or gastroenterologist for an appointment.

IBS is a chronic condition, but with the right care and follow-up, many people experience meaningful symptom improvement and a better quality of life. Learn more about our digestive health services.