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Do You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Do you often have abdominal cramps or bloating? Are your bowel movements difficult? Or do you have trouble getting to the bathroom fast enough? If so, you may have irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. Sometimes called "spastic colon," IBS is a very common condition. People who have IBS have digestive tracts that react abnormally to certain substances or to stress, leading to symptoms like cramps, gas, bloating, pain, constipation, and diarrhea. 
What Causes IBS? Smoking, eating certain foods, drinking alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or feeling stress or anxiety can alter the normal workings of the digestive tract and contribute to the motility problems that cause IBS. This doesn't mean you have a disease like cancer, colitis, or an ulcer, just that your digestive tract isn't working the way it should. Although no one knows for sure, IBS may be caused by a problem with the nerves or muscles in your digestive tract. IBS can be a painful, annoying problem, but you and your doctor can do some things to help you feel better.
Only your doctor can diagnose and treat a medical problem. ©2001 The StayWell Company, 1100 Grundy Lane, San Bruno, CA 94066-3030. www.staywell.com 800 333-3032. All rights reserved. |
