Abstract

Do you suffer from chronic constipation, frequent diarrhea, stomach cramps, gas, or bloating? If so, you may have a condition called irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The prevalence of IBS has received much attention recently, especially with the development of new drugs specifically designed to relieve the symptoms of IBS. Between 9 and 22% of Americans suffer from IBS, and worldwide, the number reaches 35%. Women are three to four times more likely to suffer from the disorder, and symptoms usually peak between the ages of 30 and 50. The symptoms of IBS include crampy pain, bloating, gassiness, and changes in bowel habits. Some people have constipation, while others experience diarrhea or both.