Causes and Risks: Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by a combination of abdominal pain and altered bowel function. The cause is a disturbance in the muscle movement (motility) in the large intestine; however, there is no abnormality in intestinal structure. The condition occurs more frequently in women and usually begins in those between 20 and 30 years old. Predisposing factors may be a low residue diet, emotional stress , bowel consciousness, and use of laxatives. The incidence is 5 out of 1000 people.
Prevention: For people prone to irritable bowel syndrome, symptoms are not always preventable. See Treatment for measures to reduce symptoms.
Treatment: The objective of treatment is to relieve symptoms. Changes in diet may help alleviate symptoms in some patients. No diet is applicable to all patients. Increasing dietary fiber and eliminating gastrointestinal stimulants such as caffeine containing beverages may be beneficial. Other possible treatment may include:
