Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Washington
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Find a ProviderWhat is IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be best classified as a bunch of chronic symptoms that occur within the gastrointestinal system. These symptoms can result from irritation in the abdomen, colon, or different sections of the digestive tract. IBS signs usually result from absorbing certain foods, worry, or other life circumstances. Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder that needs to be managed on a long-term basis.
At Washington Gastroenterology, our GI specialists are trained to deal with irritable bowel syndrome and commonly help individuals manage their condition and symptoms. To find help with IBS in Washington, please get in touch with our team today.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
Several signs of IBS can occur, which might vary considerably from person to person. Overall, it depends on how your intestines react to the food you consume or the stress you experience.
IBS indicators might involve:
- Excess gas
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Cramps
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Mucus in stool
It is important to talk to your provider if you have bloody stool, inexplicable vomiting, or constant stomach discomfort that stretches to your back. Severe symptoms may suggest a more concerning disease, like colon or rectal cancer. Get in touch with a local Washington Gastroenterology gastroenterologist immediately if you have any combination of the listed symptoms.
What are the causes of irritable bowel syndrome?
IBS is occasionally called “the brain-gut disorder.” The head leads and regulates the functionality of the gastrointestinal system. When IBS develops, that regulation is interrupted or weakened, which drives the gastrointestinal tract to operate unnaturally.
The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is still undetermined. The bowels' walls are lined with muscle layers constricting and relaxing as they transport sustenance from the gut, through the GI tract, and to the rectum. Individuals with IBS have a disruption in the interplay within the brain, the autonomic nervous tract, and the muscles of the intestines, consequentially causing excessive or inadequate movement.
The leading triggers of IBS are:
- Caffeinated drinks
- Hormones (women are significantly more likely to have IBS, and troubles are frequently worse around menstrual cycles)
- Alcohol
- Spicy foods
- Illness
- Foods high in fat
- Stress
How is IBS addressed?
The specialists at Washington Gastroenterology routinely provide IBS treatment for patients in Washington. A consultation with one of our GI providers can help establish the best treatment choices for IBS. There are several lifestyle changes that you can undergo to help prevent and control the symptoms of IBS and improve your standard of life. Some of those lifestyle modifications include:
- Consuming foods high in fiber
- Avoiding foods that cause symptoms
- Exercise
- Obtaining plenty of rest
- Staying hydrated
Medications could also help to relieve symptoms and possibly treat some of the fundamental problems affiliated with irritable bowel syndrome. Drugs utilized to address IBS include:
- Pain management medication
- Fiber capsules
- Anti-nausea drugs
- Laxatives
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Anticholinergic drugs
- Antidepressants
Clinical tests and research are constantly being conducted to discover better solutions and treatments for IBS. It is furthermore a good idea to maintain a log of your symptoms, diet, and anxiety level to help you comprehend what elements trigger symptoms for you.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs
How common is IBS?
IBS can affect both children and adults, but it typically develops prior to turning 40. IBS occurs in between 10 – 15% of individuals in the U.S.
Can IBS be cured?
Irritable bowel syndrome is not curable; however, it can likely be improved through changes to diet along with lifestyle adjustments. Our Washington providers can guide you while you make the needed changes to manage your symptoms.
Can IBS be prevented?
What causes irritable bowel syndrome is not known, so there is no known way to avoid it. We do have effective methods to manage symptoms, however. This can include changes in your current lifestyle and medications and starting to use daily dietary supplements. Quitting foods and beverages that you know trigger IBS can help diminish its effects.
Is it possible to soothe an irritable bowel syndrome flare-up?
There are a few different ways you can soothe associated symptoms if you are dealing with an IBS flare-up, like:
- Apply heat to your lower abdomen for about 15 minutes
- Go for a move your body
- Eat a light meal and avoid fats and spices that could disrupt your GI system
- Sip noncaffeinated teas, including peppermint, ginger, or lavender tea
- Try to reduce stress
Find help for IBS
IBS can trigger an array of gastrointestinal troubles, but it does not have to govern your lifestyle. The board-certified GI providers at Washington Gastroenterology offer specialized care to recognize and help control the condition. To find out more about IBS symptoms or receive treatment for IBS in Washington, please get in touch with our staff today to connect with a local digestive health specialist near you.
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