Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional digestive disorder of which there are several subtypes.

Although the exact cause of IBS is unknown, there are effective treatments that can help alleviate symptoms.

Symptoms can persist for years, ranging from mild to severe.

man looking in the bathroom mirror

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These features can help direct the appropriate treatment and even aid in predicting the likely outcome (prognosis).

Can You Switch IBS Types?

IBS-M is the least stable subtype overall.

In cases like these, the underlying cause will need to be treated in addition to managing IBS symptoms.

Post-Infectious IBS

Post-infectious IBS (PI-IBS)occurs after an infection in the digestive tract, such asfood poisoning.

With PI-IBS, IBS symptoms can persist even after the infection clears.

PI-IBS is characterized by the sudden onset of IBS symptoms.

However, with PI-IBS, IBS symptoms almost always resolve on their own over time.

With PDV-IBS, symptoms of IBS can persist well after the underlying infection has cleared.

After extensive investigation, excluding all other possible causes for your symptoms, FBD-U may be diagnosed.

The diagnosis is primarily used for the purpose of obtaining IBS treatment.

General IBS Symptoms

IBS symptoms can vary from person to person and change over time.

Symptoms often come and go with no distinct pattern.

The lack of coordination between the intestine and the brain causes the digestive tract to malfunction in different ways.

When peristalsis speeds up, there can be cramping and diarrhea.

Some of the treatments for IBS-C and IBS-D can overlap.

Wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains are rich sources of insoluble fiber.

When you have constipation, these can ferment in thecolonand cause bloating and gassiness.

However, many healthcare providers still believe its important to rule out other health conditions before officially diagnosing IBS.

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