-IBS is defined as recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort at least 3 days per month in the last 3 months with at least 2 of the following:
1) Improvement of symptoms with defecation,
2) Onset associated with a change in frequency of stool, or
3) Onset associated with a change in form or appearance of the stools.
Symptom onset must be > 6 months prior to diagnosis and organic disease must be absent.
-“In North America, the prevalence of IBS is 5 to 10% with peak prevalence from 20 to 39 years of age. Abdominal pain is the most common symptom and often is described as a cramping sensation. The absence of abdominal pain essentially excludes irritable bowel syndrome. Other common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating diarrhea and constipation.”