Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Overview

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common long-term condition in which the gut becomes over-sensitive, producing abdominal pain, bloating and a change in bowel habit — often alternating between diarrhoea and constipation — without any visible damage to the bowel on tests. It is not dangerous, but it can significantly affect quality of life. With the right combination of diet, lifestyle and symptom-directed treatment, most people manage IBS well.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain or cramping, often easing after passing stool.
• Bloating and excess gas.
• A change in bowel habit — diarrhoea, constipation, or both alternating.
• A feeling of incomplete emptying after passing stool.
• Mucus in the stool, in some cases.
• Symptoms that fluctuate with stress, food or lifestyle.

Diagnosis

IBS is diagnosed from the symptom pattern, after other conditions are excluded. Tests are done to rule out other causes rather than to “confirm” IBS — and may include blood tests, a stool examination and, when warning features are present, a colonoscopy. The absence of warning features (weight loss, bleeding, night symptoms, onset in older age) supports a diagnosis of IBS rather than a more serious condition.

Management

Management is tailored to the dominant symptoms. Diet and lifestyle are central — identifying personal trigger foods, eating regularly, managing stress, and staying active. Symptom-directed medicines help with pain, diarrhoea or constipation as needed. For some, a structured dietary approach such as a low-FODMAP trial under guidance helps identify triggers. Treatment is reviewed and adjusted over time.

Diet and lifestyle

• Eat regular, balanced meals; avoid long gaps or overeating.
• Identify and limit personal trigger foods.
• Manage stress, which commonly worsens symptoms.
• Stay physically active.
• Consider a guided low-FODMAP trial when triggers are unclear.
• Ensure adequate fibre and fluids, adjusted to the bowel pattern.

Warning signs — these suggest another cause

• Unintended weight loss.
• Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools.
• Symptoms that wake you from sleep.
• A new onset of symptoms in older age.
• Persistent diarrhoea or a persistent change in bowel habit.
• A family history of bowel cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

How we help

Dr. Nayak diagnoses IBS after excluding other causes, guides dietary and lifestyle management, and provides symptom-directed treatment with regular review. Consultations are available in-clinic in Bhubaneswar and over teleconsultation.

Related conditions and patient concerns

• Bloating
• Change in Bowel Habits
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal Pain
• Fatigue, Weakness & General Symptoms