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Irritable bowel syndrome

Also called IBS or Spastic colon

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It causes symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation, which tend to come and go. It is usually a lifelong problem, but it does not damage the gut. The exact cause is unknown, but it has been linked to food passing through the gut too quickly or too slowly, sensitive gut nerves, stress and family history.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

Changes to diet, such as a low FODMAP diet with a dietitian, managing stress and regular exercise can help.

Medicines can ease specific symptoms, and talking therapies or gut-directed hypnotherapy help some people.

Common signs

  • Tummy pain or cramps, often eased by going to the toilet
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhoea, constipation or both
  • Mucus in the poo
  • Wind

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Questions about symptoms
  • Blood tests and a stool test to rule out other conditions, such as coeliac disease and IBD

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Blood and stool test results
  • A food and symptom diary
  • Dietitian advice
  • Gastroenterology letters

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Have other conditions been ruled out?
  • Should I try a low FODMAP diet?
  • Which medicines might help my symptoms?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Bleeding from the bottom, unexplained weight loss, or a lump in the tummy: get it checked soon, these are not caused by IBS

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

Inflammatory bowel diseaseA term for long-term conditions that cause inflammation of the gut, mainly Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.Coeliac diseaseAn autoimmune condition in which eating gluten damages the lining of the small bowel. It is treated with a lifelong gluten-free diet.Food intoleranceDifficulty digesting certain foods, causing bloating, wind or diarrhoea. Unlike an allergy, it is not life-threatening.