Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Signs, Symptoms, and Causes

An estimated 10% of the population worldwide suffer from IBS, with a large portion of affected people being under the age of 50.

Unlike some other gastrointestinal disorders, however, there is yet to be a known and definitive cause for the disorder.

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by a change in bowel movements and is divided into three categories.

The first is IBS with constipation (IBS-C) where patients experience at least one hardened stool within a 24-hour period.

Another is IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), with at least one watery stool within the same 24-hour period.

Finally, there’s also IBS with mixed stools (IBS-M) – a combination of the first two.

Symptoms, Causes, Side Effects of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome? The exact symptoms vary between people, but the common ones include:

Regular episodes of abdominal cramping which may or may not be relieved by moving your bowels
Bloating
A change in your bowel habits not marked by viral illness
Excessive passing of gas
Periodically experiencing an urgent need to move your bowels.

Patients may also experience lesser-known symptoms of IBS such as nausea, lack of energy, heartburn, and general feelings of malaise.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Signs, Symptoms, and Causes

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Forum Health’s Solutions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

*Some services may not be available at every clinic. Find a nearby integrative medicine clinic for more information.

Though there is no definite treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, many sufferers see a drastic improvement by following a diet for IBS and by holistically repairing their gut health.

Taking control of your gut health won’t only help you manage IBS, but it also plays a role in reducing the additional harmful health risks increased inflammation has on the body.

Contact Forum Health and get help for IBS today.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Program
Highlights & Solutions

With a multi-talented team spanning a variety of disciplines, you’re in good hands. From mastering your microbiome to giving you a personalized diet to optimize your gut health, we can help you to effectively resolve IBS symptoms. Our science-backed and holistic treatment programs will allow you to manage your IBS symptoms and treat the condition effectively. Our treatment plans can include:

IV Nutrition Therapy

Peptide Therapy

Hormone Health

Detox Programs

Learn more about Forum Health's
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment Plans

“I was suffering with multiple digestive issues for months and tried everything. I saw my regular Doctor, Gastroenterologist, and had tried every diet out there that was supposed to help with my symptoms. Since working with Brittany, I am well on my way to having a healthy gut and losing all the weight that I had gained due to my IBS-C. I was so uneducated when it came to nutrition so it was very frustrating to me not knowing what I could and could not eat. Brittany not only gave me a "Dummy Proof" plan, she gives me an enormous amount of support and accountability. I love that I'm saving so much money on meds and supplements. I wasted so much time and money trying to find what would work. With Brittany's knowledge of supplements and her eagerness to do what is right for me and my symptoms... it takes the guessing game out of it and I only take what I need and what WORKS!...I have lost several pounds of body fat and several pounds of inflammation.”

Jaime F

Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs

How to Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome

There are various personalized treatments available for irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, such as detox programs, IV nutrition, peptide restoration, supplements, and hormone therapy.

What Causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Plenty of factors increase your risk of developing IBS. These include stress, psychological factors such as depression and anxiety, sleep disruption, changes in your intestinal microbiome, and genetics.

What Are the Worst Foods for IBS?

A number of people with IBS experience worsening and increased frequency of IBS episodes when they consume triggering foods like dairy, high-calorie or fried food, and gluten.

Keeping a food diary and working with a doctor or dietitian can help you plan a diet best suited to your needs.

How Is IBS Diagnosed?

Diagnosing IBS often starts with assessing your medical history.

Your medical provider will ask you questions about your bowel movement frequency, feelings of gassiness, and stool appearance. A physical exam is also necessary to rule out other potential conditions.

How to Cure IBS Permanently

IBS is a chronic condition that you’ll often have to manage throughout your lifetime.

Fortunately, there are plenty of advanced and scientific treatment options to help ease your IBS symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What Are the Do’s and Don’ts of IBS?

As a general rule, patients with IBS should avoid eating too much in one sitting.

Eating smaller and more frequent meals can help manage IBS flare-ups, as well as enjoying a FODMAP diet.

What Are the Coping Strategies for IBS?

Staying hydrated, doing gentle exercises, and avoiding triggering foods during an IBS episode is crucial.

For additional relief, you can take prescription medication to relieve symptoms of cramping, constipation, and/or diarrhea.

The most important thing to do is provide your body with the most optimal environment to heal itself. This includes effective stress management and maintaining a positive outlook.

What Questions to Ask about IBS?

If you’re diagnosed with IBS, you should consult your medical provider regarding managing its effects.

It’s also important to ask about certain foods to avoid, as well as alternative treatment strategies.

Does Not Eating Make IBS Worse?

Although there is no direct correlation between worsening IBS and fasting, it’s suggested that those who fast for prolonged periods may consume larger portion sizes – resulting in adverse effects for IBS patients.