Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a problem that affects mainly the bowel. It is a disorder characterized most commonly by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. It can be found in children, often is first identified in adolescence and can resolve unexpectedly for periods of time throughout an individuals lifespan, reoccurring at any age. IBS causes a great deal of...

Irritable bowel syndrome is believed to be due to the abnormal function (dysfunction) of the muscles of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract or the nerves controlling the organs. The nervous control of the gastrointestinal tract, however, is complex. A system of nerves runs the entire length of the gastrointestinal tract from the esophagus to the anus in the muscular walls of the organs....

One symptom of bowel dysfunction is diarrhoea. Diarrhoea is when food passes through and out of the bowel very quickly. When does diarrhoea occur? Diarrhoea is usually a reaction to food poisoning. You have eaten food which is full of bugs; the body's defence mechanism is engaged and the food is expelled from the body as fast as possible. Diarrhoea may also occur when you are tense or...

Study confirms IBS improvement Dr. Maia Dodds Irritable bowel syndrome is a debilitating and distressing condition, which affects 10-20% of the population. IBS is characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel function such as constipation, diarrhea or alternating diarrhea and constipation. Some people have occasional symptoms, which can be aggravated by stress or food intolerances. Others...

If you have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you will know how difficult it is to treat. Doctors can be dismissive of IBS symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation and bloating, and when treatment is offered it may only help for a short while before the distressing symptoms return. Sufferers often find that they have to deal with the symptoms themselves, through self-help...