IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Mixed group of abdominal symptoms for which no organic cause can be found

Question 2

Cause

Answer 2

Probably due to disorders of intestinal motility or enhanced visceral perception

Question 3

Symptoms

Answer 3

• Diarrhea, constipation, or both, + crampy abdominal pain relived by defecation
• Symptoms are chronic (>6 months), and exacerbated by stress, menstruation, or gastroenteritis (post-infection IBS)
• Blood in stool and weight loss never part of IBS —> investigate urgently

Question 4

Examination

Answer 4

Often normal, but general abdominal tenderness is common