Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional disorder of the gut. A functional disorder means there is a problem with the function of a part of the body, but there is no abnormality in the structure. So, in IBS, the function of the gut is upset, but all parts of the gut look normal, even when looked at under a microscope. IBS causes various symptoms. IBS can affect anyone at any age, but it commonly first develops in young adults. IBS is slightly more common in women than it is in men.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
-- Pain and discomfort may occur in different parts of the tummy (abdomen). Pain usually comes and goes. The length of each bout of pain can vary greatly. The pain often eases when you pass stools (faeces) or wind. Many people with IBS describe the pain as a spasm or colic. The severity of the pain can vary from mild to severe, both from person to person, and from time to time in the same person.

-- Bloating and swelling of your abdomen may develop from time to time. You may pass more wind than usual.

Changes in stools:
-- Some people have bouts of Diarrhea, and some have bouts of Constipation.
-- Some people have bouts of diarrhoea that alternate with bouts of constipation.
-- Sometimes the stools become small and pellet-like. Sometimes the stools become watery or more loose. At times, mucus may be mixed with the stools.
-- There may have a feeling of not emptying the back passage (rectum) after going to the toilet.
-- Some people have urgency, which means they have to get to the toilet quickly. A morning rush is common. That is, they feel an urgent need to go to the toilet several times shortly after getting up. This is often during and after breakfast.