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Irritable bowel syndrome (functional bowel)

Definition:
Irritable bowel syndrome includes a group of gastrointestinal symptoms for which a cause is not known. The symptoms are often worsened by emotional stress.

Alternative Names:
Pylorospasm; Nervous indigestion; Spastic colon; Intestinal neurosis; Functional colitis; Irritable colon; Mucous colitis; Laxative colitis; Functional dyspepsia

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by a combination of abdominal pain and altered bowel function. There are many possible causes. For instance, there may be a disturbance in the muscle movement of the intestine or a lower tolerance for stretching and movement of the intestine. There is no abnormality in the structure of the intestine.

The condition occurs more frequently in women and usually begins between the ages of 20 and 30. Predisposing factors may be a low-fiber diet, emotional stress, and use of laxatives.

Irritable bowel syndrome is extremely common, but only a small proportion of people seek treatment.



Review Date: 11/7/2002
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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