How To Identify The Different Types Of IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that causes problems in the large intestine and, as a result, makes the excretion process difficult, according to MayoClinic. The most common symptoms of IBS are abdominal cramps, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion. It is usually a long-term illness that requires constant care and treatment. You may need to make certain lifestyle changes such as altering your eating habits, including more physical activity in your routine, and even reducing stress triggers to ease IBS symptoms.

IBS is a common condition, affecting about 10 to 15% of the population in the U.S., per the statistics published in the American College of Gastroenterology. However, sadly, not everyone is diagnosed with this disorder, as people often dismiss the symptoms as anxiety-related digestive distress. In fact, the same source shows that out of this number, only 5 to 7% of the people are diagnosed. Interestingly, it is more common in women than in men.

The most important thing to understand about IBS is that it doesn't happen overnight, but rather develops because of an underlying health condition or infection. That said, there are three main types of IBS, and each one varies with respect to the symptoms. The first type is IBS-C, which according to Healthline, causes severe bloating, abdominal aches, and constipation. You might have difficulty passing stool because it may be too dried up, and the frequency may be under three times a week. As a result, you may feel uncomfortable throughout most of the day.

The second type is called IBS-D which is characterized by severe diarrhea, stomach ache, and frequent need to pass stool, per WebMD. The consistency of the stool is often loose. You may need to be careful with your diet and be sure to drink plenty of water. It's also necessary to avoid foods that trigger diarrhea. IBS-M is the third type of this gastrointestinal disorder and is accompanied by both diarrhea and constipation episodes, reports Healthline. If you have IBS-M, you may feel abdominal cramps, bloating, a feeling of fullness in the colon, and a frequent need to go to the loo.