Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a chronic condition affecting the large intestine that requires long-term management. It is classified into subtypes based on predominant stool pattern: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), and mixed IBS (IBS-M). The exact cause is unknown, but it involves a combination of gut-brain interaction problems, visceral hypersensitivity, altered gut motility, and changes in the gut microbiome. Stress and certain foods are known to trigger or worsen symptoms. IBS is highly prevalent in the UAE, partly attributed to fast-paced lifestyles and dietary habits.

Symptoms

• ●Abdominal pain or cramping, often related to bowel movements
• ●Bloating and excessive gas
• ●Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both
• ●Mucus in the stool
• ●Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
• ●Worsening symptoms after eating

What Causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood. It likely results from a combination of factors including abnormal gut-brain communication, heightened intestinal sensitivity, altered gut microbiome, and intestinal muscle dysfunction. Stress, anxiety, food intolerances, and previous gastrointestinal infections may all play a role.

Risk Factors

• ⚠Female sex — women are twice as likely to have IBS
• ⚠Age under 50
• ⚠High stress levels or anxiety disorders
• ⚠History of food intolerances
• ⚠Previous gastrointestinal infection
• ⚠Family history of IBS

How to Prevent Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Managing stress through regular exercise, mindfulness, and adequate sleep can help prevent flare-ups. Identifying and avoiding food triggers, eating regular meals, staying hydrated, and maintaining a high-fiber diet are also beneficial.

When to Get Tested

Get tested if you have persistent abdominal pain with changed bowel habits for more than three months, to rule out conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or infections.

References & Sources

• [1]
  Mayo Clinic — Irritable Bowel SyndromeAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [2]
  NHS — Irritable Bowel SyndromeAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [3]
  Cleveland Clinic — IBSAccessed: 2026-02-24