IBS Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people all over the world. It is a chronic functional disorder that might not permanently damage your digestive tract, but it significantly impacts your daily life. Depending on a wide array of factors, the condition can present differently. That is why it is crucial to understand the range of IBS disease symptoms, especially how they differ in males and females.

Let’s explore the IBS symptoms, causes, types, and more. Read on!

1.0Common Symptoms of IBS

People who have IBS have different digestive symptoms varying in frequency and intensity. These symptoms are triggered by hormonal changes, diet, or stress. Furthermore, depending on your situation, they might come and go or be constant. Let’s take a look at the most common IBS symptoms:

1. Abdominal Pain & Cramping

This is the most reported symptom of IBS. Pain usually occurs in the lower abdomen and is often relieved after a bowel movement.

2. Bloating & Excess Gas

A feeling of fullness, tightness, and visible swelling of the belly is common. Bloating often worsens after meals.

3. Diarrhoea (IBS-D)

Frequent, urgent, and loose or watery stools define this form of IBS. It may cause a fear of travelling or eating out due to unpredictability.

4. Constipation (IBS-C)

Hard, infrequent stools and straining during bowel movements are typical. Individuals may feel like they haven’t fully emptied their bowels.

5. Alternating Bowel Habits (IBS-M)

Many people experience both constipation and diarrhoea at different times. This form is known as mixed IBS or IBS-M.

6. Mucus in Stool

White or clear mucus may be present in the stool, which is unusual in normal bowel movements but common in IBS disease symptoms.

7. Urgency to Defecate

A sudden and strong urge to have a bowel movement, sometimes with fear of not reaching the restroom in time.

2.0Other IBS Symptoms You Should Know

Besides digestive distress, IBS can cause several non-GI symptoms that are often overlooked:

• Incomplete bowel movements
• Nausea, especially after meals
• Fatigue or low energy levels
• Food intolerances (e.g., dairy, gluten, FODMAPs)
• Lower back pain
• Frequent urination

These IBS symptoms in females and males can vary depending on hormone levels, stress response, and gut sensitivity.

3.0What Are the Causes of IBS?

The exact cause of IBS isn’t known, but researchers believe it results from a combination of physical, psychological, and environmental factors. Here are some of the most likely IBS symptoms and causes:

4.0Different Types of IBS

IBS is categorised based on the dominant bowel habit. Understanding your type can help tailor treatment strategies.

Both IBS symptoms in men and women can fit any of these categories, though IBS-D is often more common in men and IBS-C in women.

5.0How Is IBS Diagnosed?

Diagnosing IBS can be complex since there's no definitive test. Instead, doctors use a combination of medical history, symptom evaluation, and diagnostic criteria to rule out other conditions.

1. Medical History & Symptom Review

Doctors start by assessing symptoms, diet, bowel patterns, and stress levels. This helps identify possible triggers and patterns.

2. Rome IV Diagnostic Criteria

To meet the criteria for IBS, patients must have abdominal pain at least one day per week over the last three months, along with two or more of the following:

Pain related to bowel movements

Changes in stool frequency

Changes in stool appearance or form

3. Physical Examination

A doctor may check for bloating, abdominal tenderness, and visible signs of discomfort during a physical check-up.

6.0Tests to Rule Out Other Conditions

Because IBS shares symptoms with other gastrointestinal disorders, doctors may conduct several tests to exclude more serious conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), colon cancer, or celiac disease.

1. Stool Tests

Used to detect infections, inflammation, or blood.

Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) – Detects hidden blood in stool.

Calprotectin Test – Identifies inflammation markers.

2. Blood Tests

Screens for anaemia, infection, or celiac disease, which can mimic IBS disease symptoms.

3. Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy

These are used in severe or unexplained cases, especially in older adults or those with alarming symptoms like weight loss or rectal bleeding.

4. Hydrogen Breath Test

Used to detect lactose intolerance or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), which can cause IBS symptoms.

5. Imaging Tests (If Necessary)

Ultrasound, X-rays, or CT scans may be ordered to rule out structural abnormalities in the digestive system.