Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder which occurs when the nerves of the intestines are oversensitive, which affects the way they function.

A normal amount of gas in the stomach can bring about abdominal ​discomfort or bloating, which is relieved once the bowels are cleared. Patients may also experience other s​ympto​ms, such as constipation and diarrhoea.

The condition affects about 10 per cent of Singaporeans, and it doesn’t discriminate between men and women, or the young and old. But it tends to be more commonly seen in people below 50 years of age.

The disorder also seems to affect those who are more highly educated and on the higher rungs of the socioeconomic ladder.

Some patients develop irritable bowel syndrome after a severe gut condition, but most patients with gut infection do not go on to develo​​p the disorder.

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as bloating, stomachache, constipation and diarrhoea, could be associated with those of many other disorders.

It is therefore best to consult a doctor to rule out more serious conditions with similar symptoms.

Consult a doctor immediately if you

• are distressed by your symptoms
• develop symptoms for the first time after age 50
• have a family history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease
• have other symptoms such as rectal bleeding, unintended weight loss, low blood count (anaemia) or diarrhoea that awakens you from sleep

Ref: S13