Topic overview

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IBS is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered stool frequency or form. Its presentation is commonly grouped as constipation-predominant (IBS-C), diarrhea-predominant (IBS-D), mixed (IBS-M), or unclassified (IBS-U); the subtype helps guide management. Alarm features such as gastrointestinal bleeding, weight loss, older age at symptom onset, or nocturnal symptoms warrant evaluation for other causes. Management begins with measures including dietary adjustment, exercise, stress reduction, and adequate sleep. Treatment options differ by bowel pattern: approaches for constipation may include soluble fiber and laxatives, while diarrhea-focused care may use symptom-relieving medicines or other therapies. Pain and bloating can also be addressed, and follow-up assesses symptoms, quality of life, and treatment effects.