Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common, long-term condition of the digestive system. It can cause bouts of stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and/or constipation.
The symptoms of IBS are usually worse after eating and tend to come and go in bouts.
The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is unknown, but most experts think that it's related to problems with digestion and increased sensitivity of the gut.
There are no specific tests for IBS, as it does not cause any obvious detectable abnormalities in your digestive system.
The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can often be managed by changing your diet and lifestyle, and understanding the nature of the condition.
After having irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) for more than 20 years, Ansar Ahmed Ullah is learning to live with the condition.
Geoff Lyon has had severe IBS since early childhood. He tells us his story.