Five signs you may have irritable bowel syndrome

Bowel syndrome is a fairly common disorder. About 6-18% of the world’s population experience it. This disorder occurs due to changes in the rate and form of bowel movements leading to pain in the lower abdominal region.

Contributing factors to Irritable bowel syndrome include stress, poor sleep, diet, and changes in the bacteria of the gut. However, the triggers or factors differ from person to person.

No matter what triggers are specific to you, it is essential to be able to recognize symptoms or signs of irritable bowel syndrome.

Signs of irritable bowel syndrome 

1. Pain and Cramping

This symptom is probably the most common symptom or sign of irritable bowel syndrome. The pain is experienced usually in the lower abdominal region, which often gets better after a bowel movement.

2. Diarrhea

This symptom is another significant sign of irritable bowel syndrome, as about one-third of people with this disorder experience diarrhea.

3. Constipation

It might seem a little strange because this disorder causes both diarrhea and constipation.

Up to 50% of people with this disorder experience constipation.

4. Alternating Constipation and Diarrhea

20% of people with irritable bowel syndrome experience mixed constipation and diarrhea. This occurs with recurring abdominal pain.

Alternating constipation and diarrhea differ from person to person, so the approach of treatment should also vary.

5. Changes in Bowel Movements

When stool in the intestine moves because of more time spent in the gut, a large amount of water is absorbed from the stool. The consequence of this is that constipation is worsened.

In cases of quick movement of stool, enough water is not absorbed in the intestines leading to diarrhea.