Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects 6 to 18 percent of people around the world. It affects the frequency of bowel movement and can trigger abdominal pain.
Many factors can trigger the symptoms of IBS. These include poor sleep, diet, stress, and changes in gut bacteria. However, the triggers are different from one person to another. Hence it makes it difficult to identify the specific stressors and foods that trigger IBS symptoms.
Fibromyalgia and IBs have many commonalities. Both conditions involve hypersensitivity which stems from the brain. In fact, both chronic syndromes co-exist in many patients. The UNC Center for Functional GI & Motility Disorders states that 60% of IBS patients also have fibromyalgia and 70% of fibromyalgia patients suffer from IBS symptoms.
Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome to look out for.
