Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms and the Different Types of IBS
Katrine Nørgaard
Video
11 min
In this video, we explain common irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and how IBS affects the digestive system. It covers the different types of IBS, including IBS with constipation, diarrhoea and mixed symptoms. The video also explains how diet, lifestyle and stress can influence digestion and fertility.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common digestive condition that affects the large intestine and can significantly interfere with daily life. Many people experience ongoing digestive discomfort without a clear structural cause, which can make IBS difficult to understand and manage. Learning to recognise irritable bowel syndrome symptoms is an important first step toward gaining control over the condition.
IBS is classified as a functional disorder, meaning symptoms occur despite the absence of visible damage or disease in the digestive tract. It is typically diagnosed after other conditions have been ruled out, which can make the process frustrating for those seeking answers. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea or a combination of both. For some individuals, IBS may also affect fertility, adding another layer of concern.
Quick answer: Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhoea, changes in stool consistency or frequency and a feeling of incomplete bowel movements. IBS is divided into different types based on dominant symptoms, including IBS with constipation, IBS with diarrhoea and mixed IBS.
What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that primarily affects the large intestine. Unlike inflammatory bowel diseases, IBS does not cause visible inflammation or damage to the digestive tract. Instead, symptoms arise from altered gut function, sensitivity and communication between the gut and the nervous system.
IBS is considered a diagnosis of exclusion. This means it is usually diagnosed only after other potential causes of digestive symptoms have been ruled out. Blood tests, stool tests or imaging may be used to exclude other conditions before IBS is identified. Because there is no single test for IBS, many people experience delays before receiving a diagnosis.
Why IBS Can Be Difficult to Diagnose
Because IBS does not show structural abnormalities, it can be challenging to diagnose. Symptoms often overlap with other digestive conditions, and the absence of visible disease may leave individuals feeling dismissed or misunderstood.
The diagnosis of exclusion approach ensures that serious conditions are ruled out, but it also means that IBS management relies heavily on lifestyle and dietary strategies rather than conventional medical treatments. This is why public healthcare systems often provide limited support for IBS, leaving individuals to manage symptoms through self-directed changes.
Common Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms
IBS symptoms can vary widely, but some are commonly reported across different types. These include:
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Bloating and gas
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Alternating constipation and diarrhoea
- Changes in stool consistency or frequency
- Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
- Mucus in the stool
- Fatigue
- Headache and joint pain
Symptoms may fluctuate over time and can be influenced by stress, diet and lifestyle habits. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others may find their daily life significantly disrupted.
How IBS Symptoms Affect Daily Life
Living with IBS can be challenging due to the unpredictable nature of symptoms. Abdominal pain, bloating and irregular bowel movements can cause physical discomfort and fatigue, making it harder to focus at work or enjoy social activities.
Dietary restrictions often play a role in symptom management, which can impact eating out or attending social gatherings. The need to avoid certain foods may feel limiting and can affect quality of life.
The emotional toll of IBS is also significant. Unpredictable symptoms can lead to anxiety and stress, which may further worsen digestive issues. Frequent bathroom visits and discomfort can interfere with productivity and social confidence, while ongoing symptoms may contribute to mental and physical exhaustion.
The Different Types of IBS
IBS is divided into different types based on the dominant bowel pattern. Understanding which type of IBS is present is essential for identifying triggers and managing symptoms effectively.
IBS With Constipation (IBS-C)
IBS with constipation is characterised by hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass and infrequent bowel movements. People with IBS-C may experience abdominal pain, bloating and a persistent feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.
Constipation can cause discomfort and may contribute to fatigue and reduced appetite. Straining during bowel movements can also increase stress and discomfort. Managing IBS-C often involves dietary adjustments, hydration and attention to eating habits.
IBS With Diarrhoea (IBS-D)
IBS with diarrhoea involves frequent loose or watery stools and an urgent need to use the bathroom. Abdominal cramping and bloating often accompany these symptoms.
IBS-D can be particularly disruptive due to its unpredictability. Frequent bowel movements may interfere with work, travel and social engagements. The fear of sudden urgency can increase anxiety and further worsen symptoms.
Mixed IBS (IBS-M)
Mixed IBS features alternating symptoms of constipation and diarrhoea. Individuals may experience periods of hard stools followed by episodes of loose stools, sometimes within the same week.
IBS-M can be especially challenging because symptoms are less predictable. Managing this type often requires careful attention to diet, stress levels and daily routines.
Why Identifying Your IBS Type Matters
Understanding which type of IBS you have helps guide symptom management strategies. IBS-C, IBS-D and IBS-M respond differently to dietary choices, hydration and eating habits. Identifying patterns allows for more targeted adjustments rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
IBS and Fertility
Research suggests that IBS may affect fertility, although the relationship is not fully understood. Several factors may contribute to this connection.
Chronic digestive discomfort and inflammation can influence hormonal balance and reproductive health. IBS may interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients needed for fertility. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in gut microbiota, which is common in IBS, may also affect egg and sperm quality.
Oxidative stress, which occurs when the body has more free radicals than it can neutralise, may influence fertility in both men and women. Stress and anxiety associated with IBS can further disrupt hormonal balance, menstrual cycles and ovulation in women, as well as sperm quality in men.
Managing IBS symptoms effectively may help reduce these impacts and support fertility.
Dietary Strategies for Managing IBS Symptoms
Diet plays a central role in managing irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Identifying trigger foods and drinks is often one of the most effective steps.
Keeping a food diary can help track what you eat alongside symptoms, energy levels, mood and sleep. Over time, patterns may emerge that reveal which foods worsen symptoms.
Common IBS Trigger Foods and Drinks
Common triggers mentioned include:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Carbonated drinks
- Artificial sweeteners
- Sugar
Replacing these with water or herbal teas may help reduce symptoms. Herbs commonly used to support digestion include peppermint, fennel, chamomile, liquorice, cumin, anise, marigold, dandelion and ginger.
Eating Habits That Support Digestion
How you eat can be just as important as what you eat. Eating heavy meals or eating continuously throughout the day may overload digestion.
Eating until you feel around 80 percent full can reduce digestive strain. Allowing time between meals helps support natural digestive rhythms. Staying hydrated supports stool consistency and regular bowel movements.
Easy-to-Digest Foods During Symptom Flare-Ups
During periods when symptoms are worse, choosing easy-to-digest foods can help reduce discomfort. Cooking vegetables rather than eating them raw makes them easier to tolerate. Soft fruits such as bananas, avocados, papaya, kiwi and mango may be gentler on digestion.
Nourishing soups, blended foods, smoothies and porridges like oatmeal can provide nutrients without overloading the gut. When choosing protein, lighter options such as chicken, fish and eggs may be easier to digest than heavy red meats.
Lifestyle Adjustments That Support IBS Management
Lifestyle changes play a key role in managing IBS symptoms.
Stress management is especially important, as stress can directly affect digestion. Practices such as meditation, yin yoga, qigong and breathing exercises may help calm the nervous system.
Regular physical activity supports digestion and reduces stress. Exercise does not need to be intense to be effective. Consistent, moderate movement can provide benefits without worsening symptoms.
How You Eat Matters
Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly helps digestion by reducing the workload on the stomach and intestines. Chewing food until it reaches a soft consistency supports nutrient absorption and digestive comfort.
Avoiding skipped meals and eating at consistent times each day helps regulate digestion. The digestive system benefits from routine and predictability.
Taking a few minutes to breathe deeply before meals can activate the body’s relaxation response, supporting digestion.
Managing IBS for Better Quality of Life
IBS is a chronic condition, but symptoms can often be improved with consistent dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Learning to recognise triggers, adopting supportive eating habits and managing stress can significantly reduce symptom severity.
Improved symptom control can enhance daily comfort, energy levels and emotional wellbeing. For those concerned about fertility, managing IBS may also help reduce factors that interfere with reproductive health.
Conclusion
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms can affect many aspects of daily life, from physical comfort to emotional wellbeing and fertility. IBS is a functional disorder diagnosed after other conditions are ruled out, and symptoms vary widely between individuals.
Understanding the different types of IBS, recognising common symptoms and adopting supportive dietary and lifestyle strategies can help improve symptom management. While IBS may present challenges, informed and consistent approaches can lead to meaningful improvements in quality of life and overall health.
