Digestive problems? Is it irritable bowel syndrome?

This is quite a personal question, any help would be appreciated.

For years now I have periods of regular bowel habits with no issues. But then I have patches, like the last month or so, where I vary between constipation and diarrhoea, bloating, tummy and back aches, and just today I have passed what looks to be drops of pure oil when passing wind.
My diet is fairly good, although I work shift work so my eating pattern tends to fluctuate. I eat lots of fresh fruit and vegies, altough I do have a love of chocolate, but I try to control this!

I have periods of stress at work and general things in lief, but I"m not depressed, fairly laid back actually.

Does anyone have any suggestions. My Mum has been diagnosed with irritable bowel many years ago, and it seems to flair up only irregularly with certain foods with set it off.
I haven't been able to identify any triggers.

oh this sound familiar. stress does it and sometimes you dont know when you are stressed. there is a product called IBS support that you can get from the chemist.

i personally take a product called psyrillium husks which is natuaral and you mix with water or put in food. i also drink alot more water aswell and i havent had a flare up in about 5 years.

i used to get it so bad that once i went to see a doctor and they thought i might be having an appendicitis.

good luck