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Irritable bowel syndrome

June 10, 2024

Reviewed by Lawrence S. Friedman, MD, Contributor; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder affecting up to 15% of people in the United States. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, gas, and bloating. Living with IBS can significantly affect a person's quality of life.

No one knows what causes IBS, and most people with IBS are not cured. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

The most common approach is making dietary changes - eliminating or reducing problem foods. Certain supplements and over-the-counter and prescription medications also may help ease symptoms. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture, and psychological therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy and biofeedback, can also help.

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