Irritable bowel syndrome: causes and treatment

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common health care problem worldwide. In the United States and Northern European countries, more women than men seek health care services for IBS. Nurses are often called on to help women with IBS manage their symptoms. This article reviews the literature related to gender differences in diagnosis, symptoms (gastrointestinal, somatic, and disturbed sleep), and physiologic and psychological factors as well as current pharmacologic therapies used in the management of IBS.