What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine. Symptoms of IBS include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. Symptoms can vary for each individual and can sometimes be controlled with managing diet, lifestyle and stress. In order for IBS to be diagnosed, symptoms must be ongoing and have been present at least three days a month in the last three months. IBS does not cause changes in bowel tissue or increase the risk for developing colorectal cancer. The causes of IBS are not exactly known, however it is believed that the intestinal muscle contractions may be stronger and longer-lasting than normal.
What is the Connection between Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Celiac Disease?
- The symptoms of celiac disease are often confused with the symptoms of IBS, which can make distinguishing between the two difficult.
- In one study from 2025, 15% of IBS patients were also diagnosed with celiac disease. The study authors recommend all IBS patients should be tested for celiac disease
- A large Swedish study published in 2024 found that, across an average of 11 years of follow up, 2.7% of those with celiac disease were diagnosed with IBS, compared to just 0.9% of the general population. This suggests those with celiac disease are at a greater risk of developing IBS.
- In a 2022 survey in Italy, 29.1% of young adults with IBS also reported having nonceliac gluten sensitivity, compared to just 8.6% of people without IBS reporting NCGS —however, because the data was self-reported, it’s unclear how many of these cases were medically diagnosed vs self-diagnosed NCGS.
Where Can I Learn More?
Do you or a family member suffer from irritable bowel syndrome? You may have celiac disease. Find out now. Take our Celiac Disease Symptoms Checklist.