http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php newsid=67338 reports that IBS is an often painful disorder of the lower intestine that causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. IBS affects 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population. Because not all sufferers have the same symptoms nor are they affected by the same foods which makes IBS difficult to diagnose.IBS is not psychosomatic. Though stress may worsen IBS, it's not the primary cause. IBS affects both men and women, although for some unknown more women than men suffer from IBS. The elderly among the many ills suffer less from IBS than their younger counterparts. Although IBS is not life threatening, it can greatly impact a person's quality of life. Lactose intolerance does not affect IBS. There are certain trigger foods that may affect IBS which is why keeping a food journal is so important. Not also IBS sufferers need to remain on a bland diet for life.
IBS is not that difficult to diagnose if the doctor is listening and the patient is paying attention and being honest about the symptoms. IBS can be affectively managed with over the counter and prescription medications.
