The most common cause of abdominal discomfort and change in bowel habit (diarrhoea or constipation) is functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) which encompasses irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux and constipation. This is a group of conditions where the way the intestines work is abnormal yet no structural abnormality is detected. It may be caused by abnormality in the hormones, nerves, intestinal bacteria or movement of the intestinal tract. While it generally does not result in death, the symptom may be very bothersome. There is no “cure” for this condition but the bothersome symptoms can usually be brought under control.
