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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

A functional bowel disorder characterised by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by chronic abdominal pain together with a change in bowel habits — diarrhoea, constipation or alternation between the two — without any underlying structural or biochemical abnormality of the bowel.

IBS is divided into four subtypes: IBS-D (diarrhoea-predominant), IBS-C (constipation-predominant), IBS-M (mixed) and IBS-U (unclassified). Symptoms are typically triggered or worsened by stress, dietary changes and hormonal fluctuations.

Diagnosis is made according to the Rome IV criteria: recurrent abdominal pain at least one day per week for the past three months, associated with defecation or with a change in stool frequency or consistency. Treatment involves lifestyle modification, dietary changes and, where necessary, medication.

Symptoms

Recurrent abdominal pain and cramps (often relieved by defecation)
Bloating and gas
Diarrhoea, constipation or alternation between the two
Mucus in the stool
Urgency to defecate
A feeling of incomplete evacuation after defecation
Worsening of symptoms with stress and after meals

Risk Factors

Female sex (about twice as common)
Age under 45
Family history
Past acute gastroenteritis (post-infectious IBS)
Anxiety, depression or chronic stress
Childhood trauma
Sensitivity to specific foods (gluten, lactose, FODMAPs)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If you notice blood in the stool
  • Abdominal pain or diarrhoea waking you at night
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • New onset of bowel symptoms after age 50
  • Family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease

Treatment Methods

01
Low-FODMAP diet (restriction of fermentable oligo-, di- and monosaccharides and polyols)
02
Regular exercise and stress-management techniques
03
Loperamide or rifaximin in diarrhoea-predominant IBS
04
Laxatives or linaclotide in constipation-predominant IBS
05
Low-dose antidepressants or antispasmodics for abdominal pain
06
Cognitive behavioural therapy and gut-directed hypnotherapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.