A pediatric doctor explains irritable bowel syndrome. http://www.chop.edu/GI

In This Video:
0:10 What is IBS?
0:16 Symptoms of IBS
0:27 How do you diagnose IBS?
0:49 IBS vs IBD
1:26 What causes IBS?
2:08 How common is IBS?
2:18 IBS treatment

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is caused by irritation in the nerves of the intestinal tract. Symptoms include pain, constipation or diarrhea, bloating and a feeling of gas or liquid moving through. The pain and discomfort of IBS can interrupt normal activities, such as school, playing and sports, and disrupt a child's life. In this video, Jennifer Webster, DO, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, explains the condition.

Treatment for IBS can include medications for constipation or diarrhea; dietary changes; yoga; acupuncture; exercise; and visits with psychologists to address the brain-gut connection

IBS is different from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Symptoms can be similar. IBD is an auto-immune disorder that causes inflammation of the intestinal tract. IBD is a life-long condition. IBD can be diagnosed by biopsy.

It's important for a patient to see a specialist such as a pediatric gastroenterologist so that a correct diagnosis can be made.