You might be surprised to learn that almost 20% of all individuals suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.  That is an amazing number and it is one of the most frequent things that a doctor hears about from those that come in for a visit.  Understanding the IBS signs can not only help you to make an accurate diagnosis of your problem, it may also help you to understand why it is occurring and what you can do about it.There are several different types of disorders that can mimic the IBS signs to a certain extent.  For example, ulcerative colitis may carry many of the same symptoms, as well as Crohn’s disease.  Fortunately, the IBS symptoms that you are experiencing, although similar to the more serious diseases, do not involve an inflammation of the tissue within the colon and do not raise your risk of cancer.

The most common IBS signs that are experienced include abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhea or constipation (at times a combination of the two) mucous present in the stool and cramping.  All of these are uncomfortable and many of them can be life altering, especially if you suffer these IBS signs on a regular basis.

Unfortunately, there is very little that a doctor is able to do for you in order to help you with the problems.  There are a few types of medication but they are not helpful in all cases.  It is a better idea if you alter your lifestyle and avoid any types of food that may irritate the situation.  Many people who do this are successful with dealing with the IBS signs to a large extent.