Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

June 10, 2008 - 7:30am

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Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS symptoms affect the intestines. The symptoms may come and go.

Normal Anatomy of the Intestines

Symptoms of IBS range in intensity from mild to severe and include the following:

Abdominal cramps
Gas
Bloating
Pain that resolves with a bowel movement
Diarrhea
Constipation
Alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation
Loose stools
Urge to move bowels but no stool is passed
Urge to move bowels after having a bowel movement
Mucus in the stool

If you see blood in the stool, consult your doctor immediately.

References:

American Gastroenterological Association website. Available at: http://www.gastro.org/ . Accessed March 6, 2006.

Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine . 14th ed. New York, NY: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2000.

Last reviewed June 2008 by ]]>Daus Mahnke, MD]]>

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.