Common Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 16, 2024

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Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a gastrointestinal disorder that can cause a range of uncomfortable and inconvenient signs. While doctors haven’t pinpointed the exact cause, it’s believed to be linked to problems with the nerves connecting the brain and the digestive tract. IBS symptoms typically flare up after eating certain foods or drinking certain beverages, and they can last for a few days before settling down. Although IBS doesn’t pose any life-threatening risks, it lacks a cure and can significantly disrupt daily life.

Sudden and Severe Diarrhea

One of the most common signs of IBS is sudden and severe diarrhea. Interestingly, not everyone with IBS experiences diarrhea, but when it strikes, it comes with an overwhelming and urgent need to empty the bowels. The experience can be embarrassing and discomforting, especially in public. Along with the physical discomfort, diarrhea can deplete your body of important nutrients and fluids. That’s why it’s essential to rehydrate and replenish those lost nutrients after an episode.

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Constipation

Despite diarrhea being a common issue, constipation is also a typical sign of IBS. It might seem strange that IBS can cause both diarrhea and constipation, but many people experience alternating patterns of the two. Constipation can make it difficult to pass stool, and the bowel movements might be dry and hard. Some individuals may feel like they haven’t fully emptied their bowels, which can lead to discomfort that persists throughout the day.

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Stomach Pains

Stomach pain is another hallmark of IBS, although it doesn’t affect everyone. The severity of the pain can vary, from mild discomfort to intense cramps that come and go. These stomach pains can be triggered by stress or certain foods, which means paying attention to dietary choices and stress levels can sometimes help. If the pain worsens, leads to weight loss, or disrupts sleep, it’s time to see a doctor to rule out other potential causes.

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Bloated Stomach

Many people with IBS struggle with bloating. While bloating can happen for various reasons, it’s particularly common in those with IBS. The exact cause is unclear, but experts believe excess gas produced by the digestive system could be to blame. Bloating often worsens after meals and can be especially uncomfortable later in the day.

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Backache

Although it’s a less common sign, some people with IBS also report experiencing back pain. This might seem unrelated, but the nerves in the digestive tract can sometimes cause referred pain in the back. On its own, back pain isn’t usually a sign of IBS, but if it happens alongside other IBS-related issues, it could be connected.

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Incontinence

In rare cases, IBS can lead to incontinence, either urinary or bowel. Urinary incontinence may result from increased pressure on the bladder, while bowel incontinence can occur in people who frequently experience diarrhea. If incontinence becomes an issue, it’s important to seek medical advice, as it may be linked to other health conditions.

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Excessive Gas and Body Odor

Another distressing sign of IBS is excessive gas, often leading to foul-smelling body odor. Passing gas or belching frequently can be embarrassing, especially in social settings. The trapped gas in the digestive tract is released, which might lead to unpleasant odors. Keeping a food diary can help identify specific foods that trigger this symptom, allowing you to adjust your diet and avoid flare-ups.

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Belching and Burping

Excess belching and burping are common in people with IBS, often due to difficulties in digesting food or trapped gas moving through the digestive system. While it can be embarrassing, it’s a natural part of the digestive process for many people with IBS. Some medications and lifestyle adjustments can help reduce this symptom.

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Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the lesser-known signs of IBS, but it’s not uncommon. The physical toll of dealing with constant digestive issues can lead to a lack of energy and motivation. Dehydration from diarrhea or an imbalanced diet due to food avoidance may also contribute to feeling exhausted. Rest is key to managing fatigue, but staying hydrated and maintaining proper nutrition are also important.

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General Feelings of Illness

It’s not unusual for people with IBS to feel generally unwell, like having a mild flu. Nausea, dizziness, and a general sense of being “off” can accompany other digestive issues. While these feelings alone aren’t enough to diagnose IBS, when combined with other signs like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation, they can point to this condition.

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Alterations in Bowel Movements

Aside from diarrhea and constipation, individuals with IBS may notice changes in their bowel movement patterns. Stool may become thin, ribbon-like, or pellet-shaped, and the frequency of bowel movements can fluctuate. These irregularities are often uncomfortable and make it difficult for people with IBS to feel normal in their daily routines.

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Mucus in Stool

Seeing mucus in stool can be alarming, but for people with IBS, it’s fairly common. The intestines produce this clear or white substance, and larger amounts can indicate irritation in the digestive tract. While some mucus is normal, consistently noticing it might be a sign of IBS.

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Food Intolerance

People with IBS often find that certain foods can exacerbate their symptoms. Dairy, high-fat foods, and carbonated beverages are common triggers. Eating these foods can lead to increased bloating, stomach pain, and diarrhea shortly after consumption. Keeping track of which foods cause the most trouble and limiting or avoiding them is a key part of managing IBS.

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Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation

A sensation that the bowels haven’t fully emptied is another frustrating sign of IBS. Even after a bathroom trip, you may still feel like you need to go again. This symptom often causes prolonged discomfort and frequent visits to the restroom, making it difficult to focus on daily tasks.

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Mental Health and IBS

There’s a strong connection between IBS and mental health. The ongoing discomfort and unpredictability of IBS can lead to increased anxiety and depression. At the same time, stress and mental health struggles can worsen IBS symptoms, creating a cycle that’s tough to break. Seeking treatment for both physical and mental well-being is crucial for managing IBS long-term.

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IBS in Children

Although IBS is often associated with adults, children can experience it too. The signs in children are similar to those in adults, including abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, and bloating. Diagnosing IBS in children can be more challenging, as their symptoms might overlap with other digestive issues. However, with the right dietary and lifestyle adjustments, IBS in children can be managed effectively.

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