Stomachaches send some folks to bed for a day. The next morning however, they feel fine. For millions of others, sunrise brings more pain and still more stomachaches that send them straight to the doctor.

Their symptoms are repeated episodes of abdominal pain, gas, and bloating, with bouts of diarrhea and/or constipation. After a complete examination and tests, the doctor’s diagnosis may be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Combined with pain and bowel irregularities, other clues that help the doctor diagnose IBS include:

• mucus in the bowel movements
• alternating constipation and diarrhea
• in women, premenstrual attacks of stomach pain.

“IBS is sometimes called spastic colon or mucous colitis,” explains Dr. John Kraus with Paducah Gastroenterology Associates. “Spasms or other abnormalities of the muscular action that passes food through the intestines are thought to be the physical basis of the problem. There is nothing wrong with the structure of the bowel itself, but rather with the way it works.”

Dr. Kraus says that teamwork between patient and physician can help find what triggers the stomachaches. Some common culprits include:

• anxiety
• stress
• fatigue
• diet, including dairy products.

“A good way to find what triggers attacks of IBS is to keep a diary,” advises Dr. Kraus. “Make daily notes of what foods you eat, any unusually stressful events, and when stomachaches begin.”

If you have IBS, your doctor can help you control symptoms and avoid flare-ups. He or she also can tell you about the various treatments available.