What are the typical symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

The typical symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) primarily include abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. These symptoms are characteristic of IBS and reflect the functional disturbances in bowel activity associated with the condition. Individuals with IBS often experience changes in their bowel movements, which can include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two. Abdominal pain is usually alleviated by bowel movements, and bloating is a common complaint that can accompany these symptoms.

Other choices describe symptoms that either indicate more severe gastrointestinal issues or are not typically associated with IBS. For instance, symptoms like severe abdominal cramps can occur in various conditions, but they are not exclusive to IBS and often suggest a different underlying issue. Nausea and vomiting can also be associated with various GI disorders but are not hallmark symptoms of IBS. Additionally, weight loss and fever are generally signs of more serious conditions such as infections or cancer, which are not typical presentations of IBS. Thus, the option highlighting abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits accurately encompasses the primary symptoms one would expect in a patient with IBS.