It is common that people with this condition also have lactose intolerance. IBS can also be mistaken for other conditions, such as Crohn’s Disease or Colitis. Sincere there is severe pain and cramping with all these disorders, a doctor must further investigate to make a definitive diagnosis.

Like with most conditions, knowing the triggers can be everything in managing this bowel disease. Impairments of the gastroenteral functionality can cause great pain and suffering, but they can be managed. There is no way to prevent this disease all together, but by managing the symptom triggers, you can have control over these conditions. 

Some triggers of this disease are overeating, wheat, chocolate, milk products, alcohol, caffeine, and stress. By avoiding these items one may be able to control the diarrhea and or constipation and may be able to avoid the severe abdominal pain. While it is impossible to avoid stress, by reducing the amount of stress, you can reduce the frequency of symtoms. 

It is thought that products heavy in fiber such as fruits can cause both acid malabsorption and fructose malaborption. There are theories that this is the cause of the severe diarrhea associated with this and other bowel diseases. 

It has been discovered that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and IBS often times go hand in hand. The system upset caused from CFS, including stress, is thought to be a trigger for IBS. 

While there are medications that can help with IBS, some people prefer to try homeopathic remedies. Peppermint oil is an old time remedy that has helped many people. Peppermint has been a favorite with IBS sufferers because it comes in convenient pill form. It is known to calm the diarrhea and make living with IBS more manageable. 

There are several risk factors with IBS. Having a family history is one known risk factor, another is being female. Statistics show that more women are affected by this condition than men. In most people Irritable bowel syndrome usually develops before the age of 35. 

A physician may preform several tests including a stool sample and a colonoscopy. Once other conditions are ruled out, a diagnosis Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be made. Though IBS is not a death sentence, it can be miserable. Learning to avoid certain food and situations can go a long way in learning to deal with this condition.