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Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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May 1, 2024 4 minute read

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It affects about 10-15% of the population worldwide and is more common in women than men.

Symptoms

The symptoms of IBS vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Alternating diarrhea and constipation
  • Mucus in the stool
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

IBS is not a serious condition, but it can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Symptoms can be mild or severe, and they can come and go over time.

Causes

The exact cause of IBS is unknown. However, it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

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Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Provides a comprehensive overview of irritable bowel syndrome, including its diagnosis, treatment, and management. It is written by leading experts in the field and valuable resource for both patients and healthcare professionals.
Introduces the low-FODMAP diet, which revolutionary solution for relieving symptoms of IBS. It provides a comprehensive guide to the diet, including a list of low-FODMAP foods and recipes.
Provides a step-by-step guide to the IBS elimination diet, which proven method for identifying trigger foods. It also includes a cookbook with over 100 recipes that are safe for people with IBS.
Comprehensive guide to the diagnosis and management of IBS for healthcare professionals. It includes information on the latest research on IBS and its treatment.
Explores the role of the microbiome in overall health and happiness. It discusses the latest research on the microbiome and its implications for a variety of health conditions, including IBS.
Comprehensive guide to the diagnosis and management of constipation, diarrhea, and IBS. It includes information on the latest research on these conditions and their treatment.
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