What is the cause of ibs?

by Lyndsey
(New York)

Does anyone know the cause of IBS? I have been told by my doctor that I have this condition, but he wouldn't tell me what causes it. Is it related to my diet as I do eat quite a lot of junk food really? I like my fast food as I have little time to make my own meals as I work long shifts. Is there something I have done wrong to get this? I mainly have what my doctor calls 'diarrhea predominant IBS' and it really gets me down. Can anyone offer me any advice about my IBS?

What is the cause of IBS?

IBS is a chronic condition and isn't curable. No one really knows what causes IBS symptoms such as diarrhea and constipation or abdominal pain. We know it sometimes occurs after a bout of gastroenteritis and is then called post infectious IBS. It can occur with obvious cause and is more common in women than men.

Food can be relevant in some cases and certainly convenience foods can make symptoms worse due to there high fat and carbohydrate content. Trying to eat balanced, regular meals is important to maintain a regular intake.

Diarrhea can be treated with various drugs (see our evolving diarrhea section) and maintain a good fluid intake. Try to avoid caffeine (in Tea and Coffee) which tends to stimulate the bowel.

IBS symptoms can be helped, but are not curable, but in time you will learn to manage your symptoms well.