Irritable Bowel
Symptoms:
The main symptoms of irritable bowel are abdominal pain or discomfort that occurs with constipation or diarrhea. Other symptoms include bloating, mucus in the stools, or a sense that you have not completely emptied your bowels.
Causes:
The cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is not clearly understood. The symptoms of IBS are thought to be a faulty communication between the brain and the intestinal tract which then causes abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines.
Self-Care:
- Include fiber in your diet
- Avoid problem foods such as alcohol, caffeinated beverages, fats, nuts, ice creams, and red meats which may aggravate symptoms
- Eat at regular times
- Limit dairy products
- Drink plenty of liquids
- Exercise regularly
Mayo Clinic Information
Web MD Information