Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the stomach and intestines, also called the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you'll need to manage long term.Only a small number of people with IBS have severe symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. More-severe symptoms can be treated with medication and counseling.

IBS doesn't cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer.

Symptoms

Symptoms of IBS vary but are usually present for a long time. The most common include:

Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is related to passing a bowel movement

Changes in appearance of bowel movement

Changes in how often you are having a bowel movement

Other symptoms that are often related include sensation of incomplete evacuation and increased gas or mucus in the stool.