on October 06, 2025

What is IBS?

IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is finally getting the attention it deserves. For years, people suffered in silence, confused by their unpredictable digestive symptoms and often dismissed by healthcare providers, Now, thanks to wider recognition and improvements in diagnostic criteria, more individuals are being diagnosed – IBS now affects about 11-14% of people worldwide.^1,2

Demystifying IBS

So, what exactly is IBS? Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common, chronic disorder affecting the digestive system, characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhoea, constipation, or both. IBS is classified as a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning that while the digestive tract may appear normal upon examination, its function is altered. IBS is different from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as there is no evidence of inflammation or tissue damage in the intestines with IBS.^3,4,5

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of IBS can be varied but hallmark symptoms include:

Abdominal pain or cramps, often relieved or worsened by having a bowel movement
Bloating or a sensation of abdominal fullness
Changes in stool appearance and frequency, such as episodes of diarrhoea, constipation, or an alternating pattern (mixed type)
Sensation of incomplete evacuation and increased gas or mucus in the stool
Other symptoms might sneak in too, like fatigue, nausea, backache, and urinary symptoms such as needing to urinate more frequently or urgently^3,4,6

Remember that IBS isn’t just about digestion but can affect overall wellbeing.

What causes IBS?

Here’s where things get complex, the exact cause of IBS is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Dysregulation of the brain–gut axis, leading to abnormal communication between the digestive system and brain
Increased sensitivity in the gut, meaning that normal contractions or small amounts of gas may cause significant pain or discomfort
Alterations in the gut microbiome, including reduced diversity and differences in bacterial composition
Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression, which can trigger or worsen symptoms
Food intolerances or sensitivities, especially to spicy, fatty foods, caffeine, or alcohol^3,4,5

Getting a diagnosis

IBS is diagnosed using defined criteria (Rome IV), based largely on symptoms that persist for at least six months and after ruling out more serious underlying conditions like celiac disease or colon cancer. It’s important to watch out for ‘red flag’ symptoms that warrant further investigation including unexplained weight loss, rectal bleeding, or a family history of gastrointestinal disease. These may point to something more serious, so should always be checked carefully^4,5

Living with IBS

IBS isn’t just a “tummy issue”—it often means ongoing adjustments to diet, lifestyle, and stress management. IBS is a long-term condition that can fluctuate over time, with periods of flare-ups and remission. While symptoms can range from mild to severe, many people manage them successfully by adjusting their diet, managing stress, and in some cases, using medications or supplements to support digestive health.^4,5,6

References

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What is IBS?

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