irritable bowel syndrome

noun

: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is characterized especially by constipation or diarrhea, cramping abdominal pain, and the passage of mucus in the stool

—abbreviation IBS

Examples of irritable bowel syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While many people don't have problems with FODMAPs, the sugars can cause pain, bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).15 Overeating watermelon may raise blood sugar in people with diabetes. —Lindsey Desoto, Rd, Ld, Verywell Health, 29 Jan. 2025

Annatto food coloring may also increase the following symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in susceptible individuals.14 Abdominal pain Bloating Diarrhea To improve these symptoms, avoid all foods and supplements that have annatto listed in the ingredients. —Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 21 Dec. 2024

For some people, drinking milk may reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, including cramping and bloating.20 Milk also contains probiotics to support good gut bacteria. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 17 Jan. 2025

For example, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may involve prescription medications and specific diet recommendations, while a diarrhea-causing bacterial infection can be treated with antibiotics.33 Prevention Burning diarrhea is not always preventable. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 5 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

irritable bowel syndrome

noun

: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is of unknown etiology but is often associated with abnormal intestinal motility and increased sensitivity to visceral pain and that is characterized by diarrhea or constipation or diarrhea alternating with constipation, abdominal pain or discomfort, abdominal bloating, and passage of mucus in the stool

—abbreviation IBS

called also irritable colon, irritable colon syndrome, mucous colitis, spastic colon