Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

by Advanced GI WA

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common problem affecting the colon or large bowel. Around one in five Australians experiences the unpleasant symptoms of IBS at some time. IBS does not damage the bowel or lead to other health problems.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to a disorder that involves abdominal pain and bloating, as well as changes in bowel movements. Some people suffer constipation, some have diarrhoea and some alternate between the two.

IBS is not the same as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Most people can control their symptoms with diet, stress management and prescribed medications.