Summary: IBS is an ailment that impacts the colon and small intestines. It often causes issues, like cramping, diarrhea, and more. Relief is possible, though!
Many adults are affected by long-term intestinal distress and bowel concerns. What you might not know is that this could be a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. This ailment affects 10 – 15% of people and does not have a cure. At Austin Gastroenterology, it’s our objective to bring attention to this affliction during April, which is IBS Awareness Month. Even though there is no permanent solution for IBS, you do not have to reside with chronic distress. Keep reading to learn more about IBS from our Austin, TX digestive health team.
What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a long-term gastrointestinal condition that impacts gastrointestinal function and involves the large and small intestines. In short, the brain and gut have difficulty working together, and it causes the colon muscle to contract more than is usual and the intestinal tract to become sensitive.
These challenges can induce symptoms, like bloating, gut pain, cramping, irregularity, diarrhea, and other issues. If you have this condition, you possibly will not encounter IBS symptoms each and every day. In truth, certain days may be entirely normal and on other days, symptoms might be worse — it truly counts on the type of IBS you have. The distinct forms of IBS include:
- IBS with constipation
- IBS with mixed bowel habits
- IBS with diarrhea
Our IBS doctors at Austin Gastroenterology regularly offer IBS medical care to Austin, TX adults. We can establish what kind of irritable bowel syndrome you suffer from and help you get the support you need.
How is IBS diagnosed?
If you have noticed indications of IBS, it might be sensible to pursue the assistance of a GI physician near you. Our team can help you determine if your afflictions are irritable bowel syndrome or another problem. Before a physical test, we’ll ask some questions to help us well understand your symptoms and health history. In some instances, we may ask you to undergo a blood exam or provide a stool sample to rule out any conditions that may be misidentified as irritable bowel syndrome. Typical signs of IBS are:
- Swelling
- Flatulence
- Decrease in appetite
- Urgent bowel urges
- Loose stool or constipation
- Abdominal trouble
Once we obtain enough proof that you have IBS, our GI specialists in Austin, TX can decide the ideal irritable bowel syndrome treatment to meet your needs.
How is irritable bowel syndrome addressed?
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, so it might take some experimentation to identify an IBS treatment that benefits you. Be that as it may, many patients realize that they can make a few nutritional and exercise changes and have outstanding results. Regular changes that often lead to a reduction of IBS symptoms include:
- Avoiding all types of caffeine
- Eating smaller meals more often rather than three larger meals
- Giving up smoking
- Increasing liquid intake
- Creating a regular exercise routine
- Increasing fiber consumption (more grains, fruits, veggies, and supplementary fiber, like Metamucil®)
- Consuming less dairy products
It’s also proactive to maintain a food log. This can help you discover which foods trigger irritable bowel syndrome issues so you can be proactive about not eating those items in the future. Furthermore, if you take any medications, we might look at those to discern if any adjustments can be done to the type or amount.
A respite from irritable bowel syndrome is within your reach
If you experience troubles from irritable bowel syndrome, like gut discomfort, diarrhea, and gas, it can be difficult to plan outings, as this disease can upset even the most cherished events. We propose visiting our gastrointestinal specialists in Austin, TX without delay so we can help you identify and treat your irritable bowel syndrome issues. While there is no universal remedy, you may be able to manage your symptoms so you can live life more comfortably. For additional details on irritable bowel syndrome or IBS treatments, call Austin Gastroenterology today.
