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IBS Treatment

Experiencing IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain and a change in bowel habits? Whether it includes diarrhea, constipation, or both, you may end up feeling like your bowel movement isn’t finished yet. Mainly affecting the large intestine, you can feel gassy and bloated a majority of the time. Although this is a chronic condition, Gastro Health and Nutrition gastroenterologists are able to treat you in order to help you return to the normal you experienced before.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a prevalent but chronic condition that primarily affects the large intestine. It manifests through various symptoms, such as excessive gas, cramps, and abdominal pain, which directly impact the digestive system. It’s important to note that while IBS affects the gastrointestinal tract, it does not cause any structural damage nor elevate the risk of developing colon cancer.

What Are Some Common IBS Symptoms?

A very small number of individuals experience severe signs and symptoms of IBS. Common symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain within the lower half of the abdomen and bloating. If you experience any of the following symptoms regularly, contact Memorial City, Gastro Health and Nutrition today for an appointment. These symptoms include:

Diarrhea, constipation, or a constant alternation between the two
Mucus in the feces
Excessive gas
Bowel movements that are looser or harder than normal

Causes and Risk Factors

Although there is no definitive cause, most researchers believe a combination of experiencing brain-gut dysfunction, dysmotility, and visceral hypersensitivity all can lead or contribute to IBS. In each of these cases, there is a consistent pattern of dysfunction between nerves within the GI tract and how they communicate with the body and hinder its ability to move food throughout the tract.

Diagnosis of IBS

In order to diagnose an individual with IBS, Memorial City, Gastro Health and Nutrition will first collect medical history and complete a physical exam. Depending on other factors or symptoms present, a doctor may order a colonoscopy in order to examine the issues in more detail.

Treatment Options

Because IBS is a chronic condition, there is no definite formula to follow that works for everybody. Symptoms can be improved by increasing fiber intake, avoiding caffeine, limiting dairy intake, and exercising regularly. Let Memorial City, Gastro Health and Nutrition personalize a treatment plan for you today that will help fit your lifestyle!