Also described as: “Baar-baar toilet jana, pet mein marod”
Common symptoms
- Abdominal pain or cramps linked to bowel movements
- Diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between them
- Urgency, especially in the morning or after meals
- Bloating and gas
- Feeling of incomplete emptying
See a doctor promptly if
- Blood in the stool
- Weight loss
- Waking at night to pass stool
- Symptoms starting after age 50
- Family history of colon cancer or IBD
What is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition of gut–brain interaction. The bowel is structurally normal, but it is more sensitive and its movements are altered. It is real, it is common, and it can be controlled.
Making the diagnosis
IBS is diagnosed from the pattern of symptoms after ruling out other conditions when needed — with blood tests, stool tests such as calprotectin, and sometimes a colonoscopy if there are warning signs.
Treatment
- Diet: regular meals, a guided low-FODMAP trial, adjusting fibre type
- Medicines targeted to the main symptom — pain, diarrhoea or constipation
- Managing stress, sleep and activity
How we can help
Consultation & Second OpinionA detailed, unhurried consultation for stomach, bowel, liver and pancreas problems — or a second opinion on a diagnosis, report or planned procedure.
ColonoscopyA camera examination of the large bowel to investigate bleeding, bowel changes or anaemia, remove polyps and screen for colon cancer.
Diet & Lifestyle CounselingPractical, Indian-kitchen diet plans for fatty liver, IBS, acidity and constipation — because food is often half the treatment.
Frequently asked questions
IBS tends to come and go, but most people achieve good control of symptoms with the right combination of diet, medicines and lifestyle changes.
No. IBS does not increase the risk of colon cancer. Warning signs, however, should be checked so that other conditions are not missed.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shivam Kalia MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Gastroenterology) · Consultant Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist