Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine, or colon. Although IBS is uncomfortable, it does not lead to ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease or increase the risk of colorectal cancer like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) does. Symptoms of IBS may intensify or disappear at times.
The walls of the intestines are lined with layers of muscle that contract and relax in a coordinated rhythm as they move food from the stomach through the intestinal tract to the rectum. IBS indicates that these contractions may be too strong or long, causing gas, bloating and diarrhea, or are too weak, slowing the passage of food passage and leading to hard, dry stools.
Signs & Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Abdominal bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Mucus in the stool
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Unknown, but many factors may play a role
- Food allergies
- Stress
- Hormones
- Other illnesses
Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Physical exam by gastroenterologist
- Stool tests
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- X-ray (radiography)
- (CT) scan
- Lower GI series
- Lactose intolerance tests
- Breath tests
- Blood tests
Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Eliminating high-gas foods from diet
- Eliminating gluten from diet
- Eliminating carbohydrates like fructose, fructans, and lactose
- Medication
- Fiber supplements
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Anticholinergic and antispasmodic medications
- Antibiotics
You can trust the highly experienced, board-certified gastroenterologists at Atlantic Digestive Specialists to provide you with personal care and the latest diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Experts in treating irritable bowel syndrome, contact us now.
