Which of the following is NOT a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by a combination of symptoms that typically include abdominal discomfort, changes in bowel habits, and associated gastrointestinal symptoms. Stomach cramping, excessive gas, and incomplete evacuation of the bowels are all well-documented symptoms of IBS.

Stomach cramping is often a primary symptom, as the syndrome can involve muscle contractions in the intestines that lead to cramping and pain. Excessive gas can result from the fermentation of undigested food in the intestines, which is common in individuals with IBS. Incomplete evacuation of the bowels is another characteristic symptom, reflecting the dysfunctional bowel behavior that patients often experience.

In contrast, nausea with severe headaches is not a typical symptom associated with IBS. While individuals with IBS may experience various gastrointestinal symptoms, the combination of nausea and severe headaches more strongly suggests other medical conditions or disorders rather than IBS itself. Therefore, it is reasonable to identify this option as not fitting within the symptom profile of irritable bowel syndrome.