Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS ) is a functional disorder in which abdominal pain or discomfort is associated with defecation and/or a change in bowel habit. Sensations of discomfort ( bloating ) , distension, and disordered defecation are commonly associated features. In some languages, the words " bloating " and distension " may be represented by the same term ( WHO Global Guidelines IBS a Global Perspective 2015 )

Current diagnostic criteria of IBS is based on Rome IV ( Rome III was updated in 2016 ) Most important change is the elimination of the word " discomfort " - considered too vagueRome IV IBS Diagnostic CriteriaAbdominal pain atleast 1 day per week during the last 3 months that is associated with atleast 2 of the following & symptom onset atleast 6 months before the diagnosis related to defecation associated with a change in frequency of stool associated with a change in the form ( appearance ) of stool.

For a precise sub-classification the patient should not be taking any medication to treat their symptom , including laxatives or anti-diarrhoeal medication during the period of evaluation.

How common - IBS is the most prevalent of the functional GI disorders (...