Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a long-term disease that leads to abdominal pain and flatulence and is associated with constipation and/or diarrhoea. Irritable bowel syndrome is not dangerous, but can be very bothersome and restrict daily activities. Sometimes the symptoms can last for a long time, but they generally go away after a while on their own. The exact causes of IBS are unknown. In some people, it seems to be brought on by certain foods or stress.