Medical Conditions » Irritable Bowel Syndrome

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder* characterized by chronic abdominal pain that is typically associated with a change in the frequency, appearance, and/or urgency of bowel movements.  Researchers have discovered that a dysregulation of the brain-gut axis (the nerves that link the brain and the gut, which control intestinal muscle contractions and other normal gut functions) is one of the likely causes of the symptoms of IBS. It is estimated that as many as 20% of American patients may suffer from one of three types of IBS; IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant symptoms), IBS-C (constipation-predominant symptoms), or IBS-A (alternating stool patterns). The onset of IBS is typically seen in patients from preadolescent to middle-aged adults and three times as many women suffer from IBS than men. It is still unknown what causes IBS, but organic disease and other psychosocial factors such as traumatic stress may lead to the development of this syndrome in some patients.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome may include:

  • Recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Abnormal stool frequency (greater than 3 bowel movements/day or less than 3 bowel movements/week)
  • Abnormal stool form (lumpy/hard or loose/watery stool)
  • Abnormal stool passage (straining, urgency, or feeling of incomplete bowel movement)
  • Passage of mucus
  • Bloating or feeling of abdominal distension
  • Gassiness
  • Feelings of urgency (the need to find a restroom fast)

Diagnostic Testing for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Historically, IBS has been classified as a functional disorder because routine laboratory testing and medical procedures such as colonoscopy have not identified any abnormalities.  Prometheus has developed the first laboratory test utilizing 10 biological markers and sophisticated pattern-recognition technology to help doctor diagnose IBS.

Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Doctors usually treat the symptoms of IBS using a number of over-the-counter and prescription medications which may include analgesics for pain, laxatives, anti-spazmotics, or anti-diarrheal medications, anti-depressants or anti-anxiety prescriptions, and even dietary restrictions if different types of food are found to irritate IBS symptoms. Of course, treatment decisions should always be thoroughly discussed with your physician.

* A functional disorder refers to a "disorder of functioning"  where the body's normal activities in terms of the movement of the intestines, the sensitivity of the nerves of the intestines, or the way in which the brain controls some of these functions is impaired. However, there are no structural abnormalities that can be seen by endoscopy or x-ray.