Although irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a tortuous disorder and interferes with the patients’ daily activities, it does not develop into a serious disease or kill its sufferer.

There is evidence that IBS can be inherited.

In mild and moderate IBS, a combination of dietary management, probiotic intake, and regular exercise are sufficient to control the symptoms. This can be supplemented by taking an appropriate medication on bad days.

In severe IBS, gastrointestinal-directed hypnosis is effective.

There are effective symptom-based medications for IBS.

Patient motivation, collaboration, and a will to make lifestyle adjustments are required to control IBS and enable these patients to lead a normal life.