Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, affects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause a variety of symptoms, such as bloating, cramping, and bouts of constipation, diarrhea, or both. Some people with IBS also experience urgency, which is the need to use the bathroom immediately, and this can significantly affect daily life. The intensity of IBS symptoms can vary widely from person to person and over time. It’s common for symptoms to fluctuate, with periods of severe symptoms followed by times when they diminish or even disappear. For many, IBS symptoms are triggered by eating certain foods or by stress. It’s encouraged to eat a healthy diet and manage stress to alleviate IBS symptoms. If you notice symptoms of IBS, you should see a doctor, as they can overlap with the symptoms of more serious conditions. More serious symptoms that warrant prompt medical evaluation include unexplained weight loss, rectal bleeding, diarrhea at night, and pain that isn’t relieved by passing gas or a bowel movement.