Osteopathic Family Physician

Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders encountered by family physicians, often as a direct result of significant stressors. IBS is a disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating and severe bowel irregularity and is commonly encountered by family physicians treating patients on a daily basis. It is a relatively benign functional bowel disorder, but is often severely debilitating. The pathophysiology of IBS is poorly understood, in part because of a lack of anatomic signs specific to IBS. This review article presents current therapies targeting the predominant symptoms of diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, or any combination of these in the presenting patient. Overall, providing effective treatment and reassurance is paramount to the psychosocial well-being of the patient.

Abstract avaible here.