Irritable bowel syndrome is a common digestive disorder which affects millions of people worldwide. Thankfully, there are strategies which help manage IBS for improved quality of life and digestive health. In this blog, you will learn about the symptoms of IBS and how to manage them.
What Are the Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
So, what exactly is irritable bowel syndrome? Simply put, it is a chronic health condition which affects the large intestine (colon). It is characterized by a diverse group of symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation (or both) and changes in bowel habits. These symptoms may come and go and vary in severity from patient to patient.
While the exact causes of IBS are unknown, there are certain factors which may contribute to its development. These factors include:
- Stress
- Trauma
- Hormonal fluctuations, as in pregnancy
- A low-fiber, high-fat diet
- Consumption of carbonated beverages, alcohol and artificial sweeteners, such as Sorbitol
Also, irritable bowel syndrome does seem to run in families, and more women than men develop it. Early adulthood is the most common time for symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome to begin.
How Can My Gastroenterologist Help Me Manage My Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
The good news regarding irritable bowel syndrome is this: its symptoms can be managed. By working closely with your gastroenterologist in Sarasota, FL, you can find real relief. In fact, outlining your symptoms during consultation with your GI doctor helps them define the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome.
Here are just some of the symptom-control strategies your gastroenterologist may include in your personalized care plan.
Identifying Your IBS Triggers
Your doctor may suggest that you keep a food diary to track which foods or beverages seem to aggravate your IBS symptoms. Consistently journaling can help you identify and avoid those triggers and possibly reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms.
Modifying Your Diet
Certain types of diets, such as those high in fat and low in fiber, can worsen IBS symptoms. Your gastroenterologist may recommend making changes to what you consume, such as incorporating more fiber-rich foods and limiting intake of trigger foods such as carbonated beverages and artificial sweeteners.
You also may wish to avoid gluten and gas-forming foods. Some carbohydrates called FODMAPs also provoke IBS symptoms. While all this advice may sound a little confusing, a nutritionist or dietician can educate you as to which fruits, vegetables, dairy products and grains contain FODMAPs, gluten and gas-forming nutrients.
Medications
Depending on the type and severity of your IBS symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage them. These could include anti-diarrheal medications, such as Imodium, laxatives, fiber supplements, such as Metamucil, or even antidepressants to help with any associated anxiety or depression. Antidepressants change the activity of the nerves which stimulate the large intestine.
Additionally, there are some medications which are specifically formulated to control symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Most help regulate how quickly (or slowly) stool moves through the bowel.
Stress Reduction
It’s well-documented that stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Therefore, you should find ways to manage and reduce stress in your daily life. Try practicing relaxation techniques such deep breathing or meditation, regular exercise, and seeking one-on-one therapy or support groups for people with similar GI problems.
Probiotics
There is some evidence that probiotics, which are live beneficial bacteria found in certain foods and supplements, may help reduce IBS symptoms. While more research is needed to fully understand how probiotics improve bowel function, incorporating probiotics into your diet may be worth discussing with your gastroenterologist.
Gastroenterologist Near You in Sarasota and Bradenton, FL
At Intercoastal Medical Group, we have four board-certified gastroenterologists on our staff. They understand the complexities of irritable bowel syndrome. They offer personalized assessments and treatment plans which help their patients normalize their bowel function and feel better, too.
To learn more about IBS, contact us for a helpful consultation with one of our GI specialists, or request a visit here. We see patients at our Cattleridge Medical Building I and Lakewood Ranch II locations. For your convenience, we can do lab work and imaging tests right at these facilities. Contact us today!
