Increasing Awareness of IBS | Signs, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Many individuals suffer from ongoing stomach pain and issues with their bowels. You may be unaware that these symptoms could indicate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition affecting 10-15% of the population and currently without a cure. Here at Bowie Health Internal Medicine, we're dedicated to raising awareness about IBS during April, recognized as IBS Awareness Month. While there's no permanent solution, living with constant gastrointestinal discomfort isn't something you have to accept.

What is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a long-term gastrointestinal disorder that affects both the large and small intestines, disrupting normal digestive processes. Essentially, it stems from a miscommunication between the brain and the digestive tract, leading to an overly sensitive intestinal system and excessive contraction of the colon muscles.

This condition can manifest in various symptoms, including gas, abdominal discomfort, cramping, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and more. Not everyone with IBS experiences symptoms constantly; some days might feel perfectly normal, while others can be significantly challenging, depending on the type of IBS you have. The main categories of IBS are:

• IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)

• IBS with constipation (IBS-C)

• IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)

At Bowie Health Internel Medicine, we have the best gastroenterologists in Maryland that specialize in diagnosing and treating IBS. We can determine which type of IBS you're dealing with and assist in alleviating your discomfort.

How is IBS Diagnosed?

If you've been experiencing symptoms suggestive of IBS, consulting with a gastroenterologist in your vicinity could be a prudent step. Our team is equipped to assist you in determining whether your symptoms align with irritable bowel syndrome or another condition. Before proceeding with a physical examination, we'll conduct a thorough inquiry into your symptoms and medical history. In certain cases, we may recommend blood tests or stool samples to rule out other disorders that may mimic IBS. Common symptoms of IBS include:

• Constipation

• Diarrhea

• Gas

• Decreased appetite

• Urgency in bowel movements

• Bloating

• Abdominal discomfort

The best gastroenterologists in Maryland at Bowie Health can help a treatment that best suits your needs.

What are the Treatments for IBS?

There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), meaning you might need to try different approaches to discover the treatment that's effective for you. However, many individuals notice significant improvement in their symptoms through specific changes in diet and physical activity. Some common adjustments that often lead to a decrease in IBS symptoms include:

• Cutting out caffeine in all forms

• Establishing a regular exercise regimen

• Stopping smoking

• Increasing intake of fiber through more vegetables, fruits, grains, and fiber supplements like Metamucil®

• Reducing dairy consumption

• Opting for smaller, more frequent meals rather than three large ones

• Drinking more water

Keeping a daily food diary is also a smart strategy. This practice can help you pinpoint the foods that trigger your IBS symptoms, allowing you to avoid them moving forward. Moreover, if you're on any medications, we can review these to see if adjustments to the formula or dose might be beneficial.

Best Gastroenterologists in Maryland

If you’ve been experiencing symptoms of IBS consistently, Bowie Internal Medicine is here to help. Please contact our office to set up a consultation.