The second type mainly produces painless diarrhea or relatively painless constipation. The diarrhea may begin very suddenly and with extreme urgency. Typically, the diarrhea follows soon after a meal, although it can sometimes occur immediately upon awakening. Sometimes the urgency is so strong that the person loses control and can't reach a bathroom in time. Diarrhea during the night is rare.
Some people have bloating and constipation with relatively little pain.
Most people with irritable bowel syndrome appear to be healthy. A physical examination generally doesn't reveal anything unusual except tenderness over the large intestine. These test results are usually normal, although the stool may be watery.