Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Houston, TX
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is classified as a group of long-term symptoms that manifest in the gastrointestinal tract. These symptoms can occur as a result of aggravation in the abdomen, large intestine, or other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. IBS troubles usually occur in reaction to ingesting certain foods or substances, anxiety, or other conditions. Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder that needs to be controlled on a chronic basis.
At Gastroenterology Consultants, our GI physicians are trained to handle irritable bowel syndrome and commonly help persons manage their condition and symptoms. To get help with IBS in Houston, TX, please get in touch with our team today.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
There is a diverse range of IBS symptoms, each of which may be experienced to different extents between people. In the end, it depends on how your system responds to the food you eat or the stress you encounter in your life.
IBS signs may be:
- Abdominal discomfort
- Cramps
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty sleeping
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Excess gas
- Swelling
- Mucus in stool
It is vital to talk to your doctor if you have bloody stool, unexplained vomiting, or persistent stomach discomfort that spreads to your spine. Stronger symptoms might indicate a more critical condition, like colon cancer. Talk to a Gastroenterology Consultants GI doctor today if you suffer any mixture of the listed symptoms.
What are the causes of IBS?
IBS is sometimes called "the brain-gut disorder." The brain leads and regulates the function of the gastrointestinal system. The assumption is that with IBS, that regulation is discontinued or weakened, which causes the gastrointestinal system to operate unusually.
The precise cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not yet known. The walls of the intestines are inlaid with layers of muscle that constrict and loosen as they transfer sustenance from the gut, through the GI system, and to the rectum. Individuals who have IBS seem to suffer a disorder in the connection in the middle of the mind, the autonomic nervous tract, and the musculature of the gut, resulting in excessive or insufficient movement.
The common causes of IBS include:
- Alcohol
- Hormones (women are significantly more likely to have IBS, and troubles are often worse around menstrual periods.)
- Caffeine
- Foods that are spicy
- Stress
- Infection
- Foods high in fat
How is IBS treated?
The gastrointestinal physicians at Gastroenterology Consultants commonly provide IBS treatments for Houston, TX patients. A talk with one of our gastrointestinal practitioners can help establish the best treatment choices for IBS. There are several lifestyle changes that you can do to help impede and handle the symptoms of IBS and increase your comfort. A few of those lifestyle changes include:
- Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms
- Getting adequate sleep
- Eating foods rich in fiber
- Drinking plenty of water
- Exercise
Certain medications could also help to alleviate troubles and maybe even address some of the underlying issues affiliated with irritable bowel syndrome. Medications utilized to treat IBS are:
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Pain management medication
- Antidepressants
- Anticholinergic medications
- Anti-nausea drugs
- Fiber capsules
- Laxatives
Clinical tests and research are continually being conducted to uncover better solutions and treatments for IBS. It is also a good plan to keep a notebook of your troubling symptoms, foods you consume, and the stress you're feeling to help you realize which elements trigger your symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs
Is irritable bowel syndrome common?
IBS can affect people of all ages, but it most commonly develops in individuals before they turn 40 years old. Irritable bowel syndrome occurs in between 10 – 15% of people in the U.S.
Can IBS be cured?
Irritable bowel syndrome is not curable, but it may be improved through diet and lifestyle changes. Our Houston, TX digestive health specialists are here to assist you while you make the necessary adjustments to manage your symptoms.
Is IBS preventable?
The cause of IBS is not known at this time, which means there is no prevention technique at this time either. Although, we do have tried and true ways to help reduce symptoms. This includes lifestyle changes, certain medications, and starting supplements. Cutting out foods and drinks that you know trigger IBS may also help lessen its effects.
Is it possible to soothe an irritable bowel syndrome flare-up?
There are a few different methods you can try to ease your symptoms if you are dealing with a flare-up, like:
- Apply a heat pack to your lower stomach for about 15 minutes
- Get up and walk or move
- Eat light meals and avoid fats and spices that might aggravate your GI system
- Sip noncaffeinated teas, such as peppermint, ginger tea, and lavender tea
- Reduce stress
Get help for IBS
IBS is known for causing an array of uncomfortable gastrointestinal issues, but you don't have to go without help. The board-certified GI doctors at Gastroenterology Consultants give the specialized care needed to diagnose and help manage the disease. For more information regarding IBS symptoms or to receive treatment for IBS in Houston, TX, please contact a member of our team today.
Reviews
Great Treatment!
It was very nice. The stuff is very friendly and they make you feel welcome.
An absolute Gem! He is cordial, knowledgeable and cares for his patients. I have recommended him on numerous occasions and feedback from them is the same as mine!
Dr. Kafrouni is a wonderful doctor. He’s patient and explains things in detail. You can tell he cares about your health. I would recommend him to anyone.
I feel I’m getting the best care . . . All questions answered. PA Julie is most attentive. The entire stall seems to give their utmost attention to my needs.
1140
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating