Are you one of the 7 percent to 20 percent of Americans who have symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome? IBS interferes with the normal functions of the bowel. Common symptoms include cramping, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. IBS is a disorder found in women more often than men and usually begins between the ages of 20 and 40.

Whether you have already been diagnosed or you want to find out more about this common gastrointestinal problem, the University of Michigan Health System is offering an educational series that can help you learn more. Every Thursday at 12:30 p.m., there is a 1-hour session presented by three U-M Health System experts. The program is free and available to anyone, but registration is required. (Click here for more details.)

Only about 25 percent of the people who have symptoms of IBS actually seek medical care related to their gastrointestinal complaints, according to William Chey, M.D., associate professor of Internal Medicine and director of the Gastrointestinal Physiology Laboratory in the Division of Gastroenterology. Patients who do seek treatment may experience a dramatic improvement in their symptoms and quality of life.

Even though IBS is a chronic illness, the symptoms can get better or worse over time. At present, the condition cannot be cured. However, the symptoms of IBS can be controlled.

There isn’t one answer that works for everyone. Patients need to work with their physicians to find the best combination of dietary changes, lifestyle interventions, and medicines to control their symptoms. Leslie Aldrich, M.D., assistant professor of Internal Medicine, says, “The key is to not let IBS run your life and for you to be in charge.”

Appointments can be made for the Functional Bowel Disorder Program and for the IBS educational program by calling (734) 647-5944 or (888) 229-7408. For more information about IBS, visit: www.med.umich.edu/gi.