IBS is a functional gastrointestinal condition characterized by symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, or alternating bowel habits. While it does not involve structural damage, symptoms can significantly impact quality of life.

From a functional medicine perspective, IBS is often viewed as a sign of underlying gut imbalance. Evaluation may consider gut motility, microbiome health, food reactions, stress response, and nervous system involvement to better understand contributing factors.