Irritable Bowel Syndrome Defined

Learn more about irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and natural remedies to treat IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is known by several names, including: spastic colon, nervous indigestion, mucous colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and intestinal neurosis. It's estimated that somewhere between 10 and 20 percent of the U.S. population suffers from irritable bowel syndrome and its vast array of symptoms. Unfortunately, an estimated 70 percent of the people with this condition don't seek any medical attention. Still, irritable bowel syndrome prompts 40 percent of all referrals to gastroenterologists, and is their most commonly made diagnosis.

More Dr. Williams Advice on Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• What causes irritable bowel syndrome?
• What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
• My all-natural irritable bowel syndrome treatment plan
• Conditions that should be ruled out before beginning an irritable bowel syndrome treatment plan
• Common conventional medical treatments for irritable bowel syndrome