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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
Healthcare providers commonly recommend this type of diet to people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive issues.21
Interactions
There is evidence that apple juice may cause some medications not to work correctly.
—Brittany Lubeck, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024
Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, IBS, often includes restricting certain foods, such as carbohydrates, but that doesn’t work for everyone.
—New Atlas, 25 Oct. 2024
Prescription drugs are also used for constipation related to a disorder, such as chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
—Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2024
Students are even concerned about possible medical conditions that could occur, such as urinary tract infections, or be impacted by a lack of access to the bathroom, such as irritable bowel syndrome, according to the petition.
—Abigail Adams, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for irritable bowel syndrome
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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 14 Nov. 2024.
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
Britannica English: Translation of irritable bowel syndrome for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about irritable bowel syndrome
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