What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal (GI) condition causing bouts of abdominal pain along with constipation, diarrhea, or both.
Although it's not life-threatening, irritable bowel syndrome can be intensely irritating and disruptive to your life. IBS is most common in women and usually occurs before the age of 50.
What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome typically include:
- Abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Gas
- Mucus in stool
- Tender abdomen
- Change in bowel movements, typically diarrhea or constipation
- Change in bowel movement frequency
Many IBS sufferers have serious pain or cramping that goes away immediately after a bowel movement.
What causes irritable bowel syndrome?
The cause still isn't certain. Recent studies indicate that people with IBS have an unusually sensitive GI tract that functions faster or slower than normal.
Additional research suggests other triggers, including dairy products, carbonated drinks, smoking, alcohol, hormones, stress, and fatty foods.
How is irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed?
Irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis begins with a review of your symptoms and medical history. Because symptoms are similar to those of other GI disorders and diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, Dr. Ashby carefully evaluates all your symptoms.
He performs specific diagnostic tests like blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopy, or sigmoidoscopy to rule out other conditions and verify IBS.
How is irritable bowel syndrome treated?
Treatment for IBS emphasizes symptom relief and prevention. Usually, the most effective IBS treatment plan includes dietary changes, habit changes, and medication.
Dietary changes
The American College of Gastroenterology recommends avoiding gas-producing foods like lactose, beans, and fructose. Dr. Ashby can recommend specific changes according to your particular IBS triggers.
Habit changes
Habit changes, like dietary changes, depend on your lifestyle and triggers. Dr. Ashby may recommend stress reduction techniques, regular exercise, and other changes.
Medication
Certain medications can help you manage your IBS symptoms but won’t cure the condition itself. Medication options include fiber supplements, anti-diarrheal drugs, antibiotics, probiotics, and antidepressants.
Dr. Ashby personalizes an IBS symptom relief plan that works for you.
There’s no reason to suffer from chronic abdominal pain, gas, bloating, and bowel problems any longer. Kevin Ashby, MD, is ready to help with your irritable bowel syndrome, so call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online.
