By Pfizer Medical Team. This article originally published on Get Healthy Stay Healthy.
Abdominal pain and cramping
Diarrhea and/or constipation
Bloating
Gassiness
Mucus in the stool
Feeling that you cannot fully empty your bowels
Some people with IBS may also experience nausea, heartburn, backache, headache, urinary symptoms, and sleep problems
Eating—there is no food that causes IBS but certain foods may make symptoms worse (this will depend on the person); consult a healthcare provider to ensure you are meeting your dietary needs
Hormonal changes, such as monthly periods
Other digestive tract diseases, such as infection
Medicines, such as antibiotics
See Your Doctor
What are your symptoms? Do you experience mostly diarrhea or constipation? Or both?
How often do you experience symptoms of IBS?
When did your symptoms start?
Are your symptoms worse after eating, during your periods (for women), after taking medications or during stressful situations?
What are your eating habits?
What other medical conditions do you have?
What medications do you take?
Do you have a family history of IBS or other gastrointestinal disorders?
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