What Teachers Should Know Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal disorder that can cause cramps, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. It's sometimes called "nervous stomach" or a "spastic colon." IBS is not the same as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Some foods — like milk, drinks with caffeine, chocolate, and foods that cause gas — can trigger IBS symptoms. Emotional stress, physical trauma, and infections can be triggers, too. Stress, in particular, plays a part in IBS. Because nerves in the colon are linked to the brain, stress (like taking tests, family problems, or moving) can affect how the colon functions. Constipation and diarrhea are common symptoms of IBS and can cause stomach pain and discomfort that is relieved with bowel movements. Although IBS can be uncomfortable and embarrassing for students, it doesn't cause serious health problems. IBS symptoms can be managed through diet and lifestyle changes and by reducing stress. Doctors sometimes prescribe medicine to treat certain symptoms. Students with IBS may: need to use the bathroom often throughout the day need seating closest to the bathroom or door feel embarrassed because they're often in the bathroom need to visit the school nurse for medicine, medical care, or to change clothes have to avoid foods that trigger symptoms have anxiety and depression What Teachers Can Do Students with IBS may miss class time for bathroom breaks. Make sure they have a hallway pass to use the bathroom whenever they need to. Allow extra time for assignments or for make-up work to be done at home. Students with IBS can participate in physical education and other activities, but might have to opt out if they're not feeling well. Stress can play a big part in IBS. Understanding your students' symptoms, diet, and concerns can help. Your students might need to see the school counselor to assist with coping strategies, especially if they're feeling overwhelmed. Back to Articles Related Articles Relax & Unwind Center When life throws problems your way, learn how to stay calm, de-stress, and solve problems. Read More Stress & Coping Center Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations. Read More Childhood Stress Being a kid doesn't always mean being carefree - even the youngest tots worry. Find out what stresses kids out and how to help them cope. Read More Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal problem that can cause cramps, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Certain foods can trigger these problems. So can anxiety, stress, and infections. Read More Digestive System Most people think digestion begins when you first put food in your mouth. But the digestive process actually starts even before the food hits your taste buds. Read More Your Digestive System The digestive system breaks down the food you eat. Learn how in this article for kids. Read More Irritable Bowel Syndrome Having irritable bowel syndrome can make a kid feel awful. The good news is that kids can take steps to feel better. Read More Irritable Bowel Syndrome Some teens get stomachaches and diarrhea often. Read about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common intestinal disorder that affects the colon. Read More Digestive System The digestive process starts even before the first bite of food. Find out more about the digestive system and how our bodies break down and absorb the food we eat. Read More Stress Stress happens when you are worried or uncomfortable about something. You may feel angry, frustrated, scared, or afraid. Our article for kids will help you manage stress. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.