For an increasing number of people, irritable bowel syndrome is annoying condition which reduces the quality of their life. The condition affects their social life and sometimes it can lead to anxiety and depression. However, many of the sufferers who have access to Internet will find online irritable bowel syndrome symptom relief resources and information, which should be able to help them alleviate their symptoms.

There are a number of web sites and forums that provide useful information on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and solutions. Some of these web sites even give information on various techniques that can help in reducing the symptoms. Although it is worth ensuring that the web sites are credible and the information is valid.

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Most people with irritable bowel syndrome experience periodic bouts of abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea, constipation, or both. Other symptoms include flatulence, belching, and bloating which may subside with a bowel movement.

There are two major variants of irritable bowel syndrome: diarrhea-predominant IBS and constipation-predominant IBS. In the first case, the patients generally have three to seven bowel movements per day with loose, watery stools. In the second case, the patients have less than three bowel movements per week. The stools are hard or lumpy and patient may strain during bowel movements.

The main cause of irritable bowel syndrome appears to be hypersensitive nerves within the large intestine. Many researches also suggest that patients with irritable bowel syndrome have extra sensitive pain receptors in their GI tract. This condition may arise due to abnormal levels of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter related to digestion regulation and mood.

An abnormal level of serotonin could also be the reason why a higher percentage of people with irritable bowel syndrome are diagnosed with a general anxiety disorder (GAD) or depression.

Another potential cause for irritable bowel syndrome is a GI tract infection. This infection may disturb the mechanism that helps in the break down of remaining nutrients in the colon.

To diagnose irritable bowel syndrome in a patient, a doctor needs to rule out other possible diseases. Generally doctors ask questions about the symptoms and go through the medical history of the patient. Doctors examine if there is any damage to intestines (irritable bowel syndrome itself does not damage the intestine). After the physical examination and other tests, if there is no sign of disease or damage, and listening to the symptoms the doctor may diagnose irritable bowel syndrome.

For treatment, doctors generally recommend dietary changes such as eating more fiber and cutting out the foods that trigger symptoms. Sometimes doctors may prescribe anti-spasmodic or pain relief medications to their patients.

If you are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, you can get more information about the condition from any number of web sites, or sign up for our free newsletter below.

There are many online irritable bowel syndrome symptom relief resources available. But do ensure that any source you use to change diet, medication, supplements or lifestyle are credible and well researched and consult your doctor for further advice.