irritable bowel syndrome

noun

: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is characterized especially by constipation or diarrhea, cramping abdominal pain, and the passage of mucus in the stool
abbreviation IBS

Examples of irritable bowel syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For some people, drinking milk may reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, including cramping and bloating.20 Milk also contains probiotics to support good gut bacteria. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 17 Jan. 2025 For example, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may involve prescription medications and specific diet recommendations, while a diarrhea-causing bacterial infection can be treated with antibiotics.33 Prevention Burning diarrhea is not always preventable. Cristina Mutchler, Health, 5 Jan. 2025 This is especially helpful for people who are mostly sedentary during the day or have conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Carrie Madormo, Rn, Mph, Verywell Health, 9 Jan. 2025 Routine digestion issues often develop with a disorder like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a food intolerance or allergy, or an infection. Cristina Mutchler, Health, 5 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for irritable bowel syndrome 

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of irritable bowel syndrome was in 1943

Dictionary Entries Near irritable bowel syndrome

Cite this Entry

“Irritable bowel syndrome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irritable%20bowel%20syndrome. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

irritable bowel syndrome

noun
: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is of unknown etiology but is often associated with abnormal intestinal motility and increased sensitivity to visceral pain and that is characterized by diarrhea or constipation or diarrhea alternating with constipation, abdominal pain or discomfort, abdominal bloating, and passage of mucus in the stool
abbreviation IBS

called also irritable colon, irritable colon syndrome, mucous colitis, spastic colon

More from Merriam-Webster on irritable bowel syndrome

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