Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a common long-term disorder of how the gut works, causing tummy pain with a change in bowel habit. The bowel looks normal on tests — it is a problem of function, not damage.
Causes & risk factors
- An oversensitive gut and altered gut-brain signalling
- Stress, anxiety and poor sleep
- Certain foods (fatty, spicy, caffeine, some carbohydrates)
- A previous gut infection (post-infective IBS)
- Changes in gut bacteria
Common symptoms
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- Identify and limit trigger foods; a dietitian-guided low-FODMAP diet can help
- Regular meals, plenty of fluids and gentle exercise
- Fibre adjustments — soluble fibre for constipation-type IBS
- Stress management, good sleep and, sometimes, gut-directed therapies
- Symptom medicines: antispasmodics, laxatives or anti-diarrhoeals as advised
When to see a doctor urgently
- Blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss
- Symptoms starting for the first time after age 50
- A change in bowel habit that keeps worsening
- Waking at night with pain or diarrhoea
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about irritable bowel syndrome (ibs). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is IBS serious or does it lead to cancer?
IBS does not damage the bowel or cause cancer. It is uncomfortable but not dangerous — though new bowel changes should always be checked to rule out other conditions.
What is a low-FODMAP diet?
It temporarily limits certain fermentable carbohydrates that can trigger bloating and pain, then reintroduces them to find your personal triggers. It is best done with a dietitian.
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MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.