Which condition is characterized by chronic abdominal pain and erratic bowel habits?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized by chronic abdominal pain and erratic bowel habits, which may include episodes of diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both. The pain associated with IBS can often be relieved by bowel movements, and individuals may experience associated symptoms such as bloating and changes in stool consistency. The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of gut-brain interactions, abnormal gut motility, and heightened sensitivity of the intestines.

In contrast, other conditions listed diverge from the defining features of IBS. Diverticulosis primarily involves the formation of pouches in the colon, often without symptoms until complications arise. Peritonitis refers to inflammation of the peritoneum often related to infections or perforations in the gastrointestinal tract, presenting with acute abdominal pain rather than chronic symptoms. Cirrhosis is a chronic liver condition that affects liver function and can lead to systemic symptoms but does not specifically manifest as abdominal pain in the context of bowel habits. Thus, the distinctive characteristics of IBS align well with chronic abdominal discomfort and fluctuating bowel movements, confirming it as the correct choice.