Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder of the colon, the part of the digestive tract that serves as a depository of stool. Its symptoms include cramping, bloating, diarrhea and constipation, each one signaling that the digestive tract is not functioning properly.

There many ways of treating and managing this disorder, even if doctors have yet to find out what really causes it. What we know is that there are certain factors that trigger the onset of irritable bowel syndrome and worsens its symptoms.

Symptoms

Oftentimes, symptoms will differ from one individual to another. Some may feel abdominal pain and discomfort, which can be relieved by bowel movement. In other instances, signs pointing to the onset of irritable bowel syndrome are chronic diarrhea, constipation, and swollen or bloated abdomen. This disorder is also associated by the presence of whitish mucous in the blood.

If ever you start experiencing these symptoms, visit your doctor. With the help of certain tests, he or she will determine whether you are really afflicted with this disorder.