Irritable Bowel Syndrome

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and who gets it?

IBS is a common functional disorder of the gut. A functional disorder means there is a problem with the function of a part of the body, but there is no abnormality in the structure. So, in IBS, the function of the gut is upset, but all parts of the gut look normal, even when looked at under a microscope. IBS causes various symptoms (listed below). Up to 1 in 5 people in the UK develop IBS at some stage in their life. IBS can affect anyone at any age, but it commonly first develops in young adults. IBS is slightly more common in women than it is in men.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

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