Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (NHS)

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: National Health Service · Published: August 19, 2026 · Accessed: August 27, 2026

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Claims this source supports

• IBS is a common condition affecting the digestive system, with symptoms including stomach cramps, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.
• The gut symptom cluster IBS describes overlaps substantially with perimenopause digestive changes, which is why the peri gut is frequently labeled IBS.
• IBS flare-ups can happen for no obvious reason, but can be triggered by alcohol, caffeine, certain foods such as spicy or fatty food, stress and anxiety, and regular antibiotic use (NHS symptoms page, reviewed 17 March 2025).
• See a GP if you think you might have IBS and have had symptoms for over 4 weeks; a GP can check for IBS and run tests to rule out other problems.
• Urgent red flags that need prompt attention: losing a lot of weight for no reason, bleeding from the bottom or bloody diarrhoea, a hard lump or swelling in the tummy, or shortness of breath, noticeable heartbeats and skin that is paler than usual (NHS 111 thresholds).