IBS disease is more commonly referred to as irritable bowel syndrome.  As its name suggests, the bowels or intestines are the ones affected by this disease. This condition is typically characterized by abnormalities in the normal functioning of the intestines.  When a person has IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, he/she will usually complain of frequent diarrhea, constipation, or pain in the abdominal area.  Other people, meanwhile, may present symptoms of too much mucus in their stools while others will experience frequent bloating.

IBS disease is considered a functional type of disease because it literally involves the abnormal functioning of the intestines.  This also explains why there is no definite organic cause for this particular condition.  Many theories suggest, though, that the abnormality points to the sensory and motor nerves in the intestines.  When there is over- or underactivity involving these nerves, the passage of food through the intestines is said to be affected.  Some experts have also suggested that bacteria in the intestines may also contribute to irritable bowel syndrome, but there are no definite studies supporting this particular theory.

With no organic cause, there is also no definite cure or treatment for irritable bowel syndrome.  Management of this disease is usually aimed at relieving the symptoms that are present.  People who experience watery stools very often may be advised to add fiber to their diet.  Dietary restrictions may also be advised for some people to avoid frequent constipation and other related symptoms.  Based on studies, some people get relief from IBS symptoms by simple modifications of what they eat and what they don’t.  The only thing required  of patients is that they prepare a list of food items they consume for a specified period in order to come up with a pattern.  Medication may also be given for frequent diarrhea and stomach pain.  Some patients, meanwhile, may need psychological help or basic education on this particular condition especially in terms of intervention and medication.