Financial Health & Planning

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms and Signs

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects approximately 10% to 15% of adults in the United States, making it a common gastrointestinal disorder with significant impact on daily life . It is characterized by chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, including constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of both . Although IBS does not cause permanent damage to the digestive tract or increase the risk of colorectal cancer, its symptoms can greatly reduce quality of life and require long-term management .