Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in St. Louis, MO
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Find a ProviderWhat is IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is best categorized as a group of continuing symptoms that happen within the gastrointestinal system. These symptoms can result from irritation in the abdomen, colon, or different parts of the digestive tract. IBS symptoms typically arise in reaction to consuming specific foods, worry, or additional life considerations. Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that needs to be supervised continuously.
At Specialists in Gastroenterology, our GI providers are trained to handle irritable bowel syndrome, and commonly help clients manage their ailment and symptoms. To find treatment for IBS in St. Louis, MO, connect with our team at one of our locations today.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
There are several symptoms of IBS that can occur, which could vary considerably from person to person. In the end, it depends on how your intestines react to the food you ingest or the stress you suffer in your life.
IBS symptoms could present as:
- Constipation
- Excess flatulence
- Gut discomfort
- Mucus in stool
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea
- Swelling
- Diarrhea
- Cramps
It is essential to contact your Specialists in Gastroenterology provider if you have blood in your stool, unexplained vomiting, or long-term abdominal discomfort that stretches to your back. Severe symptoms could suggest a more serious condition, like colon or rectal cancer.
What are the causes of irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome is occasionally referred to as “the brain-gut disorder.” The brain controls and organizes the functionality of the digestive system. In theory, when IBS develops, that connection is stopped or impaired, which causes the GI tract to behave unnaturally.
The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is still unidentified. The bowels are lined with coats of muscle that release and contract as they transport sustenance from the stomach, through the gastrointestinal tract, and to the rectum. Those with IBS appear to suffer a disruption in the contact between the mind, the autonomic nervous system, and the musculature of the abdominal area, resulting in too much or too little movement.
The leading triggers of IBS include:
- Spicy foods
- Foods high in fat
- Stress
- Illness
- Caffeine
- Hormones (Women are substantially more likely to suffer from IBS, and symptoms are frequently worse during menstrual periods)
- Alcoholic drinks
How is IBS addressed?
Our specialists at a Specialists in Gastroenterology location in your community often provide IBS treatment for patients in St. Louis, MO. A consultation with one of our GI providers can help determine the ideal treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome in St. Louis, MO. There are several lifestyle switches that you can make to help hinder and control the troubles of IBS and increase your quality of life. A couple of those lifestyle changes include:
- Exercise
- Drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms
- Getting adequate sleep
- Ingesting foods high in fiber
Medications can also help to soothe troubles and address several of the primary issues connected with irritable bowel syndrome. Medications used to address IBS include:
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Laxatives
- Anticholinergic drugs
- Antidepressants
- Pain management drugs
- Anti-nausea medications
- Fiber capsules
Clinical tests and studies are consistently being conducted to learn better solutions and treatments for IBS. It is also a good idea to maintain a log of your symptoms, diet, and stress levels to help you understand what causes trigger symptoms for you.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs
How common is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome affects children and adults; however, it commonly occurs in individuals before they turn 40 years old. Additionally, IBS affects about 10 – 15% of individuals in the U.S.
Can IBS be cured?
IBS is not curable; however, it may enter remission with dietary changes along with changes in your lifestyle. Our St. Louis, MO digestive health doctors are ready to be there for you while you make the required modifications to reduce your symptoms.
Is there a way to prevent IBS?
What causes IBS is not known at this time, which means there is no known prevention technique. Although, we do know effective strategies to minimize symptoms. This can include changes in lifestyle, new medicines, and starting vitamin supplements. Quitting foods and certain beverages that you know will spark your IBS can also help lessen its effects.
Is it possible to soothe an IBS flare-up?
There are a few different methods to minimize associated symptoms if you are experiencing an IBS flare-up, like:
- Apply a heat pack to your lower stomach area for about 15 minutes
- Take a walk or move your body
- Eat a light meal and reduce fats and spices that may cause issues to your digestive tract
- Sip noncaffeinated teas, including peppermint, ginger tea, or lavender tea
- Minimize things that cause you stress
Compassionate care for patients with IBS
IBS can cause a variety of uncomfortable intestinal issues, but it does not need to control your life. The board-certified GI providers at Specialists in Gastroenterology offer the expert care necessary to identify and help manage this condition. To find out more regarding IBS symptoms or to get treatment for IBS in St. Louis, MO, please get in touch with a member of our team today.
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