Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder that affects the colon. IBS causes disruption in bowel elimination, and while the disorder can be uncomfortable, it does not cause permanent intestinal damage. Women are more likely to suffer from IBS than men. IBS generally begins before the age of 35 and primarily affects young and middle-aged adults, but can extend well into adulthood. And according to a January 2005 article in "Geriatrics," increasing evidence suggests that the prevalence of IBS in older adults may be similar to that in younger adults; therefore, the diagnosis should be considered when a geriatric patient presents with unexplained abdominal symptoms.
There is no definitive cure for IBS, though the disorder can be helped with dietary changes and medication. Those who experience sudden changes in bowel habits, or who experience bloody bowel movements, should seek medical evaluation for IBS or intestinal disorders.
Abdominal Discomfort
Adults who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome often experience intermittent abdominal discomfort. Symptoms include abdominal bloating, pain and cramping. These symptoms can be distressing and persistent, especially in people who suffer from constipation-prominent IBS.
Abdominal pain may be relieved with a bowel movement; however Women's Health.gov advises that completing bowel movements or completely evacuating the bowel can be difficult and lead to continued pain.
Diarrhea
Irritable bowel syndrome can present as diarrhea-prominent or constipation-prominent. Diarrhea-prominent IBS features loose, frequent bowel movements that may contain large amounts of mucous. Bowel urgency may be present as well, causing the sudden, uncontrollable need to have a bowel movement.
Constipation
Constipation-prominent IBS features constipation as a main symptom. Bowel movements may be infrequent and difficult to pass. Straining may accompany bowel movements, though little to no stool is passed, according to the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Constipation may be followed by severe bouts of diarrhea, abdominal pain and discomfort as the bowel finally empties. Alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea may occur in cycles.
Mucousy Stools
Irritable bowel syndrome often causes mucous in the stool. Mucous acts as a cushion around hard stool to aid in elimination from the intestinal tract. A person with IBS may pass large amounts of mucous and notice the substance is present in both diarrheal and firm stools. Bloody stools can be caused from straining during a bowel movement; however is not common in IBS as mucous. Bloody stools can indicate additional intestinal problems and should be medically evaluated.
