Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects your large intestines. Even though most people with the disorder experience mild symptoms, they can be severe. IBS is prevalent in Cypress, TX, just like other parts of the country. If you live in or around Cypress, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), help is available to you. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. The following are common signs of the disorder.

1. Abdominal Pain, Cramping, and Discomfort

The first and most apparent sign of IBS is abdominal pain or cramping. Usually, both your brain and gut are responsible for controlling digestions. They work together through the bacteria in your gut, nerves, and hormones. If you have IBS, there is poor communication between the brain and the gut. It results in tension and pain in your digestive tract. You are likely to experience pain and discomfort in your lower abdomen. Bowel movements may ease the pain.

2. Excessive Mucus in Stool

While it is normal to have some mucus in your stool, IBS may cause you to pass excessive amounts of mucus.

3. Diarrhea

There are three types of IBS, and one of them is diarrhea-predominant. With this type of disorder, you may pass stool more than twice the amount that healthy adults do.

4. Bloating

IBS causes bloating. Your stomach may swell so much that you can no longer wear your normal clothes. Even though there are many causes of bloating, consider seeking your doctor’s opinion to rule out the possibility of IBS.

5. Constipation

Even though IBS causes diarrhea, it may also cause constipation. The most common type of IBS is constipation-predominant. It affects almost half of people with IBS. Interrupted communication between your gut and brain may slow down the transit time of your stool. It causes your bowel to absorb a lot of water from stool, leading to constipation.

6. Food Sensitivity

Many people with IBS are sensitive to FODMAP foods. These are types of carbohydrates that may cause irritation or inflammation in your gut. Some of these foods include:

• Cashews
• Beans
• Lentils
• Garlic
• Onions
• Avocados

These foods may trigger the signs of IBS. However, studies suggest that consuming them in moderation may improve your symptoms.

7. Joint Pain

Even though the cause of joint pain for people with IBS is unclear, many people with the disorder experience it. IBS increases your risk for temporomandibular disorder, a common type of joint pain.

8. Brain Fog

Another symptom of IBS is brain fog. It is a state of impaired judgment, confusion, and inability to think clearly.

9. Stress

IBS is closely linked to stress. The nervous system is responsible for controlling the gut and responding to psychological stress as well. The physical symptoms of the disorder can be stressful.

In conclusion, IBS can significantly affect your well-being if you fail to seek medical help. By understanding the symptoms, you can seek treatment as soon as you get it. If you have any questions about it, consider seeking your doctor’s opinion.