Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms

Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
Updated on July 03, 2025
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Common symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) include abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, or alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation. A colonoscopy shows that there are no organic changes in the mucous membrane of the intestines in IBS patients. For treatment, oral probiotics can be taken to adjust the intestinal flora, which can improve symptoms. In addition to Western medicine, Chinese medicine can also be effective. Oral Chinese herbal medicine based on syndrome differentiation, and external Chinese therapies like moxibustion at acupoints such as Shenque, Dachangshu, and Xiaochangshu can relieve pain, as well as stop diarrhea or facilitate bowel movements. Treatments such as herbal enemas and hydrotherapy are also effective.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Can you smoke with irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder, characterized primarily by abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits and stool characteristics. The abdominal pain is related to defecation, typically easing after bowel movements. This condition tends to be recurrent and persistent. As for whether individuals with this syndrome can smoke, given that smoking can significantly harm many organs, including the gastrointestinal tract, it is advised against. Smoking can potentially exacerbate the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Therefore, smoking is not recommended for individuals with this condition.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What can people with irritable bowel syndrome eat?

People with Irritable Bowel Syndrome should eat more fresh vegetables and fruits that are rich in vitamins and fiber. In terms of other dishes, they can eat lighter steamed or boiled dishes, but should avoid stir-fried, pan-fried, deep-fried dishes, as well as coarse, tough foods. They should also avoid overly sour, spicy, sweet, or salty dishes. Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome should eat light, easily digestible foods, and maintain a regular and moderate diet. They should avoid overeating or binge eating, and should not have meals that are too full or skipped. It is also important to adjust rest periods appropriately.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Can people with irritable bowel syndrome diarrhea eat steamed buns?

People with diarrhea due to irritable bowel syndrome can eat steamed buns because they need to avoid foods like milk, coffee, and soy milk, which can exacerbate diarrhea. Steamed buns do not cause diarrhea, so patients with irritable bowel syndrome can eat them normally, but they should not eat too much and should eat in moderation, avoiding overeating. At the same time, patients with irritable bowel syndrome should eat more easily digestible and light foods, avoid spicy and stimulating foods as well as greasy foods, and also avoid alcohol, strong tea, coffee, etc.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Can irritable bowel syndrome cause back pain?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders. Its primary symptoms are abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits and stool characteristics. The abdominal pain is related to bowel movements, meaning that the pain tends to decrease after defecation. These symptoms are a major manifestation of IBS. IBS rarely causes lower back pain. If lower back pain occurs, it is important to consider diseases that commonly cause this symptom, such as lumbar disc herniation, lumbar muscle strain, and kidney diseases like kidney stones and renal colic. Therefore, it is crucial to first identify the specific cause of the lower back pain before proceeding with targeted treatment. IBS is generally not associated with symptoms of lower back pain.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Does irritable bowel syndrome cause excessive flatulence and stools that are not well-formed?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome with frequent flatulence and unformed stools is a possibility, indicating that the patient is experiencing indigestion. When stools contain excessive water, they are likely to be unformed. In such cases, it is advisable to take some digestive aids and medications to regulate intestinal flora for treatment. Digestive aids such as compound digestive enzymes can be chosen, and medications to regulate intestinal flora may include Bacillus subtilis and Bifidobacterium triple viable bacteria, among others. Additionally, consideration can be given to using bidirectional neuromodulators for the intestines, such as Trimebutine Maleate. (Medication usage should be under the guidance of a physician.)