1) Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the colon and causes abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. IBS occurs more often in women and symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal cramps.
2) There are no known causes of IBS but it is thought to involve hypersensitivity of the colon and changes in the brain-gut connection. Diagnosis involves ruling out other conditions through medical tests and matching symptoms to the definition of IBS.
3) Treatment focuses on diet, lifestyle changes, and medications to control symptoms and includes increasing fiber, staying hydrated, managing stress, and potentially using antispasmodics or antidiarr