Irritable bowel syndrome, also called IBS, is a gastrointestinal disorder associated with a variety of symptoms, such as abdominal pain and bloating. IBS is a chronic condition, but there are treatments for helping manage symptoms. Treatment for IBS is available at Rochester Gastroenterology Associates, serving Rochester, Victor, Pittsford, Webster, Fairport, and Brighton, NY, where our GI doctors can develop an individualized treatment plan for you.
Symptoms of IBS
IBS affects an estimated 60 million adults in the US, with women developing the condition more often than men. The exact cause of IBS is not known, but the condition can be diagnosed through blood work, stool sample testing, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy.
Patients with IBS can experience a wide range of gastrointestinal symptoms at different times. They may go through asymptomatic periods, followed by an intense flare-up of symptoms. Some factors can aggravate IBS symptoms and contribute to a flare-up. For example, stress, certain foods, and hormone fluctuations can all induce IBS symptoms.
The signs or symptoms of IBS include:
- Bloating
- Cramping
- Abdominal pain
- Unintended weight loss
- Mucus in the stool
- Rectal bleeding
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Gas
Treatments for IBS
There are many options for treating IBS and its symptoms. Treatment depends on several factors, including the type of symptoms being experienced. At our office serving Rochester, Victor, Pittsford, Webster, Fairport, and Brighton, NY, a GI doctor can develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms. Some ways to treat IBS include:
- Medications
- Supplements
- Stress management
- Relaxation techniques
- Lifestyle changes
- Dietary changes
- High-fiber diet
If you have any of the signs of IBS, such as frequent abdominal pain or constipation, see a GI doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Several options are available for managing the symptoms of IBS. For a GI doctor in Rochester, Victor, Pittsford, Webster, Fairport, or Brighton, NY, call Rochester Gastroenterology Associates at (585) 267-4040 or (585) 227-1080.