• The actual cause is unknown, these factors have been shown to play a role:
• Muscle contractions in the intestine that are unusually strong
• Abnormalities in the nervous system of the intestines
• Inflammation of the intestines
• Severe infections such as gastroenteritis and bacterial colonization of the intestines
• Changes in gut microflora

There are no known measures to prevent the condition.

• Avoid stress especially where there is a family history of the disease.
• Consume adequate dietary fiber

If untreated for a prolonged period it may lead to

• Poor quality of life
• Mood disorders

Treatment is aimed at relieving the symptoms, it cannot be cured.

Medication

Anti-diarrheal drugs: To relieve diarrhea.

Loperamide . Cholestyramine . Colestipol

Anticholinergics: To relieve spasms.

Dicyclomine

Tricyclic antidepressants: To relieve depression and severe pain.

Imipramine . Desipramine

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): To relieve depression, pain and constipation.

Fluoxetine . Paroxetine

Anticonvulsants: For pain and bloating.

Pregabalin . Gabapentin