Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS

Many issues can cause or contribute to abdominal pain and getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step in treating the underlying cause so symptoms are relieved. Texas Center for Digestive Health uses an array of advanced techniques to provide patient-centered care for patients in and around the Greater Houston Metro area.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes an array of symptoms that can have a significant impact on a person’s overall quality of life. As a top-ranked gastroenterology practice in the Greater Houston Metro area,Texas Center for Digestive Health helps patients relieve IBS symptoms, including pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea.

Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome common?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder of the colon (large bowel) and affects about 58 million Americans. More women than men are affected by IBS. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is characterized by episodes of abdominal pain, bloating and excessive intestinal gas. Patients may experience episodes of constipation alternating with episodes of diarrhea. Since many serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract may present in a way similar to IBS, the initial diagnostic workup is focused on searching for other serious medical problems. Some symptoms like the presence of blood in stool or significant weight loss always warrant a thorough diagnostic investigation. Treatment of IBS includes modification of dietary habits, the inclusion of fiber into the diet, changes in lifestyle, and use of medications. For details concerning symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of IBS please click on the links to the patient-oriented sites of the National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases and the American College of Gastroenterology.

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What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a chronic condition that causes an array of symptoms, like bloating, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation and mucusy stools. Some patients with IBS can also have nausea. The symptoms and severity of IBS can vary from one person to another, and they often vary in intensity over time.

What causes IBS?

The specific cause of IBS hasn’t been identified, but many factors can contribute to IBS symptoms, including chronic stress, bacterial or viral infections, an imbalance in healthy gut flora, hormonal fluctuations, and sensitivities to foods or medicines. Some research indicates some symptoms of IBS may be exacerbated by abnormal nerve signaling that causes the bowel to contract or “spasm,” resulting in cramping and irregular bowels.

How is irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed?

IBS diagnosis begins with a physical exam and a review of the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Because symptoms can be very similar to other bowel-related conditions, minimally-invasive evaluations like colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy may be used to evaluate the bowel and to rule out these conditions. There is no blood test or other tests to definitively diagnose IBS, so diagnosis is usually made by ruling out other possible causes of symptoms in addition to evaluating existing symptoms using specific criteria, including how often the symptoms occur and how long they last.

What treatments are available for people with IBS?

Many people with IBS respond to lifestyle changes like avoiding foods that trigger symptoms or learning to manage stress. Medications can also be prescribed to treat specific symptoms like cramps, bloating and diarrhea. Treatment may need to be amended over time as the patient’s symptoms and needs change, and regular office visits can help ensure treatment stays on track.

Is IBS the same as IBD?

No. IBD stands for inflammatory bowel disease which includes both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. IBS and IBD may cause some of the same symptoms, but IBD causes permanent changes in the bowel itself, including sores or ulcers that can bleed. IBS does not cause changes in the bowel tissue, and the two conditions are treated differently.