Irritable Bowel Syndrome Specialist
Gastroenterology and Nutrition of Central Florida
Gastroenterologists & Certified Nutritionists located in The Villages, Leesburg, & Wildwood, FL
Up to 15% of adults have irritable bowel syndrome, but a diagnosis occurs in as little as 5%. If you’re having gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, making an appointment with our highly trained physicians and providers is the first step in feeling better. Call the office in The Villages, Leesburg, or Brownwood or click on the booking tool to set up your appointment now.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Q & A
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a large intestine disorder that causes abdominal pain and other uncomfortable problems. This disorder is a functional one, which means it's an issue with the way your intestine works rather than a structural problem like cancer.
IBS is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder in the United States.
What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms can vary according to the type. The three types of IBS are:
IBS-C (IBS with constipation)
This form of IBS features constipation, bloating, hard stools, and abdominal pain.
IBS-D (IBS with diarrhea)
This form of IBS features diarrhea, fecal urgency, and abdominal pain.
IBS-M (IBS mixed bowel habits)
IBS-M can include alternating diarrhea and constipation, along with abdominal pain and other symptoms.
Each type of IBS is equally common.
How do you diagnose IBS?
Your doctor at Gastroenterology & Nutrition of Central Florida assesses your symptoms and performs an exam to diagnose IBS. Describe your symptoms in as much detail as possible to help your doctor make the right diagnosis. Information like the duration of abdominal pain and frequency of loose or hard stools is very helpful.
If you're also having other symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss or rectal bleeding, your doctor may also perform blood tests or endoscopic procedures to rule out other conditions like Crohn's disease.
What causes irritable bowel syndrome?
The causes aren't certain, but new research shows that irritable bowel syndrome most often occurs when you have an unusually sensitive gastrointestinal tract that functions either faster or slower than normal.
IBS isn't an anatomical issue, nor is it psychosomatic. But, it's a genuine medical issue that requires attention.
What is the treatment for irritable bowel syndrome?
Your Gastroenterology & Nutrition of Central Florida doctor can ease your IBS symptoms so you can resume your regular activities. Often, treatment starts with conservative measures like nutrition changes.
This centers on avoiding trigger foods, boosting your fiber intake, increasing water intake, and other healthy changes. Establishing healthy exercise and sleep patterns can help, also.
Your doctor may also prescribe medication to help you manage your symptoms, such as constipation or diarrhea relieving drugs. Some patients also benefit from probiotics (good bacteria), tricyclic antidepressants, or other medication.
Call the Gastroenterology & Nutrition of Central Florida office nearest you or set up your appointment with the online scheduling tool for IBS help now.
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Colonoscopymore info
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GERDmore info
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