Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Not Just A Gut Feeling

Course overview

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional gastrointestinal disorder in which muscles in the large intestine contract faster or slower than is considered normal. This can result in chronic and episodic abdominal pain and/or discomfort, alterations in bowel habits and abdominal distention. IBS is not dangerous and does not lead to serious diseases such as cancer, but it can be painful and worrisome. Many people have mild forms of the disease and can learn to cope with the exasperating symptoms through diet, stress management and prescribed medications. Some individuals, however, have symptoms that can negatively affect general health, vitality, sleep, diet and sexual functioning. In some, IBS can limit daily activities and the ability to function in a job, attend social functions and even travel short distances. These people suffer significant decreases in quality of life.