What you need to know about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Last updated: 16 April 2026

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive condition that can cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhoea, constipation, or both.

While IBS is not life-threatening, it can significantly affect your daily life, from what you eat to how you plan your day. Despite this, many people continue to live with symptoms without seeking medical advice.

In Singapore, IBS affects around 9% of the population, yet less than half of those experiencing symptoms consult a doctor.

What Causes of IBS?

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood. There are many different causes of IBS, and it is often a combination of factors that varies from patient to patient. These may include:

• Food sensitivities or intolerances
• Stress, anxiety, or other emotional factors
• Imbalance in gut bacteria
• Increased sensitivity of the gut nerves
• Hormonal changes
• Abnormal movement of the intestines

Because IBS can have multiple contributing factors, symptoms and triggers can vary widely between individuals.

Why IBS Is Often Overlooked

Many people dismiss IBS symptoms as minor digestive issues or part of a busy lifestyle

Bloating may be blamed on diet. Changes in bowel habits may be ignored or normalised. Stress-related symptoms are often brushed aside.

Because symptoms can come and go, it’s easy to delay seeking help — even when they start affecting daily life.

How Is IBS Diagnosed?

IBS is diagnosed based on a combination of your symptoms and a clinical evaluation by a doctor.

This typically includes:

• A detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history
• A physical examination

A diagnosis may be considered if you experience:

• Abdominal pain that improves or worsens after bowel movements
• Changes in bowel movement frequency
• Changes in stool form (hard, loose, or watery)

There is no single test for IBS, but doctors may perform tests to rule out other conditions.

When Are Tests Needed?

Additional tests are recommended if there are red flag signs that suggest another serious medical problem:

These include:

• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent symptoms despite treatment
• Fever
• A personal or family history of gastrointestinal cancer
• Abnormal findings during a physical examination

Tests may include:

• Blood or stool tests
• Imaging scans
• Endoscopy (camera test of the digestive tract)
• Breath tests
• Tests to assess intestinal movement

These investigations are important in ensuring an accurate diagnosis. IBS is a chronic condition which have similar symptoms with other pathology like Cancer, Infection and chronic inflammation therefore It is important that these conditions be excluded to avoid delayed treatment.

IBS Treatment and Management

IBS is a long-term condition, and symptoms may change over time. While there is no cure, symptoms can usually be managed effectively with the right approach. Treatment is often personalised and may involve a combination of strategies. 

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

• Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
• Adjusting fibre intake
• Maintaining regular eating habits

Stress and Psychological Management

• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Addressing anxiety or emotional triggers

Medications and Medical Treatments

• Medications to relieve symptoms
• Probiotics to support gut health
• In some cases, antibiotics or other targeted therapies

Finding the right combination may take time, and working closely with your doctor can help tailor a plan that suits your needs.

Managing IBS with the Right Support

Managing IBS often requires a personalised approach, as symptoms and triggers can vary from person to person. With the right guidance, most patients can bring their symptoms under control and improve their quality of life.

At Nobel Gastroenterology & Hepatology Centre, care is centered around understanding each patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, and concerns. Our specialists take a comprehensive approach from accurate diagnosis to tailored treatment plans to help identify triggers and manage symptoms effectively.

If you have been experiencing ongoing digestive discomfort, consider speaking with our specialist for a personalised assessment.

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