Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects the large intestine (colon) and can cause bloating, abdominal cramping and a change in bowel habits. Additionally, some patients with IBS have constipation while others have diarrhea. Consequently, some people go back and forth between the two. Although IBS is uncomfortable, it does not harm the colon.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is common and more frequently affects women than men. Consequently, no one knows the exact cause of IBS, but most people can control symptoms with a change in diet, medicine and stress management.
If you’re struggling with symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, or bloating, it could be a sign of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a common gastrointestinal condition. At Digestive Health Centers located in North Texas, our dedicated team of gastroenterologists are here to help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Mills, Dr. Sripathi Kethu or any of our esteemed gastroenterologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating IBS effectively.
Don’t let IBS control your life – take the first step towards relief by scheduling an appointment with our experienced gastroenterologists in Dallas today.
What are Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
- Pain or cramping in the abdominal area
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Mucus in the stool
- Flatulence
- Uncomfortable bloating
Risk Factors of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Being female
More women are diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome than men.
Family history
People with a close relative, such as a parent or brother or sister, with Irritable Bowel Syndrome are at higher risk for IBS. It is unclear as to whether the risk results more from shared genetics or a common environment.
Being under 35 years of age
At least half of all people who are diagnosed with IBS are under 35 years of age.
Even though IBS is not harmful, it can be confuse with other conditions. IBS symptoms may be similar to other diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or even colon cancer. It is imperative that you see a doctor if you have significant changes in your bowel habits because IBS symptoms could be an indication of a more serious problem.
Tests to Diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome
There are no physical signs to diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome, so diagnosis usually occurs by a process of elimination. To be diagnosed with IBS, the most important symptom is abdominal pain that lasts at least 12 weeks (not necessarily consecutive). Other criteria include mucus in the stool, bloating, bowel straining and urgency and changes in the stool.
If a diagnosis of IBS seems fairly certain, your gastroenterologist at Digestive Health Center in Dallas may recommend treatment without any testing. If there are any reasons for concern, however, your GI doctor may recommend one or more of the following procedures.
Colonoscopy
A test that examines the lining of the entire colon to check for polyps, inflammation and abnormalities.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
A procedure that uses a flexible tube to examine the the lower part of the colon.
Computerized tomography (CT) scan
This test will show a cross-section of the internal organs and help diagnose other issues.
Lactose intolerance tests
If lactase is not present in the body to break down milk sugar, you may exhibit some of the same symptoms as IBS such as cramping, bloating, constipation or diarrhea. This test can help differentiate between lactose intolerance and IBS.
Blood test
Celiac disease, an allergic reaction to gluten, can have similar symptoms to IBS. A blood test can help exclude celiac disease.
Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
There is no cure for IBS, so the goal is to manage the symptoms. This can be achieved when you work closely with your Digestive Health Center practitioner in North Texas for ongoing guidance and support.
Controlling the diet
Some people discover that certain foods will trigger IBS symptoms. Common triggers include alcohol, chocolate, carbonated beverages, certain fruits or vegetables or milk. Keeping a food journal and recording foods that cause constipation or diarrhea can be helpful.
Stress management
Like many other diseases and conditions, stress can make IBS worse. Planning ahead, making lists, meditating, taking time to relax and avoiding stressful situations can prevent aggravation of symptoms.
Medications for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Fiber supplements. Taking fiber supplements can help control constipation.
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Anticholinergic medications. These drugs can help control painful intestinal spasms.
- Alosetron (Lotronex). This medication was approve by the FDA, removed from the market, and now is again with restrictions. Alosetron helps relax the colon and slow down the bowels. It is only used when diarrhea is the prominent symptoms, and usually used when all other treatments have fail.
- Lubiprostone (Amitiza). This drug increases fluids in the small intestine to help move the stool. It is generally only for patients with severe constipation when other treatments have been ineffective.