Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder in which recurrent abdominal pain is linked to altered defecation, without structural or biochemical abnormalities visible on routine testing. Symptoms wax and wane for years, often begin in adolescence or early adulthood, and can dominate daily schedules while leaving life expectancy untouched. Core diagnostic features• Abdominal pain: crampy, aching, or sharp, usually located in the lower abdomen; episodes last minutes to hours and are relieved—at least partially—by passing stool.• Change in stool frequency: patients report more than three loose stools daily or fewer than three stools weekly; some alternate between the two extremes... Learn more

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain linked to altered bowel habits, without detectable structural or biochemical abnormalities. Symptoms fluctuate over years, often beginning in adolescence or early adulthood, and can significantly impair quality of life while sparing life expectancy. Cardinal features Abdominal pain or discomfort: crampy, aching, or sharp, usually located in the lower abdomen; episodes last minutes to hours and are relieved by defecation. Change in bowel frequency: patients may experience >3 loose stools daily or <3 stools weekly; the pattern can alternate within the same individual. Change in stool form:... Learn more