How to Manage IBS Symptoms and Feel in Control Again
If you’re 1 in 5 Americans experiencing IBS, discover relief tips, ways to manage symptoms, and strategies to take back control of daily life.
By Param Patel, MD, Gastroenterologist, Virtua Gastroenterology
One moment you’re going about your day, and the next, IBS symptoms like cramping or bloating demand immediate attention.
If you're like the one in five Americans who experience irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you know the difficulties this condition can cause in your daily life.
Second only to the common cold, IBS is a leading cause of missing work and school. IBS results in almost three million doctor visits a year, but those numbers could be even higher if more people stood up to their IBS fears. Millions avoid seeking treatment because they are too embarrassed to discuss their symptoms or feel that there is no solution.
How do I know if I have IBS?
IBS is a complex disorder of the lower intestinal tract characterized by abdominal pain and constipation or diarrhea. Most commonly, either constipation or diarrhea will be the dominant symptom, but some will experience a mix of the two or alternate between the two. Lastly, IBS can be worsened by emotional stress.
The exact cause of IBS is not known, but it is likely that IBS results from changes in the communication signals between nerves that control muscle contractions in the colon and the nerves of the brain. IBS can occur at any age, but often begins in adolescence or early adulthood. It is also more common in women.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:
- Abdominal distention
- Abdominal fullness, gas, bloating
- Abdominal pain or tenderness that comes and goes, disappears after a bowel movement and/or occurs after meals
- Chronic and frequent constipation, usually accompanied by pain
- Chronic and frequent diarrhea, usually accompanied by pain
- Emotional distress
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
When should I see a doctor for IBS symptoms?
Making a gastroenterology appointment is important if you experience IBS symptoms. A specialist can provide guidance, rule out more serious conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and help identify treatment strategies for your digestive health.
Most of the time IBS can be diagnosed through symptoms, but tests and exams are needed to help rule out possible causes such inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn's disease or colitis. Some of the tests and exams include:
- Blood tests
- Stool samples
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
What foods or other triggers should I avoid if I have IBS?
IBS is a chronic condition that can't be cured, but avoiding these triggers can help you manage the symptoms:
- Caffeine
- Red meat
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Artificial sweeteners
- Carbonated beverages
- Dairy products
- Fried food
- Stress
Your gastroenterologist may also recommend medications or supplements to help treat your IBS symptoms, including:
- Fiber or fiber supplements that help loosen stool and relieve constipation
- Anti-diarrhea medications such as Imodium
- Anti-spasm medications that help relieve abdominal pain such as dicyclomine and hyoscyamine
- Low dose antidepressants that specifically target the chemicals in the bowel that lead to pain, such tricyclic antidepressants
Is your gut health in check?
If stomach issues affect you often, it may be time to see a specialist. Call 888-847-8823 or request an appointment with a Virtua Gastroenterologist.
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