Persistent abdomen or stomach pain is often times a sign of irritable bowel syndrome, which can be treated by a gastroenterologist.
Irritable Bowl Syndrome, also known as IBS, is a condition that affects your large intestine. The symptoms include
Abdominal pain and cramping, which can be moderate to severe
Frequent or chronic bloating or gas
Constipation or diarrhea, which can be frequent or chronic
Frequently having mucus in your stools
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders reveal a few facts about IBS
IBS affects between 25 and 45 million people in the United States. About 2 in 3 IBS sufferers are female. About 1 in 3 IBS sufferers are male. IBS affects people of all ages, even children.
The impact of IBS can range from mild inconvenience to severe debilitation. It can control many aspects of a person’s emotional, social and professional life. Persons with moderate to severe IBS must struggle with symptoms that often impair their physical, emotional, economic, educational and social well-being.
IBS is unpredictable. Symptoms vary and are sometimes contradictory. Diarrhea can alternate with constipation. Long-term symptoms can disrupt personal and professional activities, and limit individual potential.
Treatments are available for IBS to help manage symptoms. Not all treatments work for all people. Through research, better treatments may be found. Although IBS is common in the general population, few seek medical care for their symptoms.
Approximately 20 to 40% of all visits to gastroenterologists are due to IBS symptoms. For those with IBS an additional burden comes from living in a society where the word “bowel” may scarcely be spoken. Individuals must cope with multiple symptoms that affect every aspect of their lives. Those around them may be unaware of the impact, or even the existence, of the disorder.
Finding Relief From IBS
See a Gastroenterologist
If you think you or a loved on is suffering from IBS or having issues with your digestive health, contact Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida. Our mission is to provide our patients with the highest quality of care with the latest technology available. Once diagnosed by a Gastroenterologist, there are several treatment options and medications available to help treat and ease your symptoms.
Eliminate Certain Foods
Eliminating certain dietary trigger foods such as gas producing foods, raw fruit, carbonated beverages, cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and cabbage), and caffeine. Many people who suffer with IBS find relief by avoiding food containing gluten, a protein found in barely, wheat, and rye.
Regular Meal Times
Consistent meal times can help reduct flare-ups. Skipping meals can exacerbate regular bowel function. If you suffer with diarrhea, try eating small frequent meals. If you are frequently constipated, opt for larger meals with foods high in fiber to help food move through the intestine.
Control Your Stress
Stress is anything that disrupts the delicate equilibrium between the brain, body, and mind. While stress is not the cause of IBS it is a known trigger. Taking more time for yourself, delegating tasks, exercise, yoga, deep breathing, and medication can all help reduce stress
IBS can have complications according to the Mayo Clinic
Poor quality of life. Many people with moderate to severe IBS report poor quality of life. Research indicates that people with IBS miss three times as many days from work as do those without bowel symptoms.
Mood disorders. Experiencing the signs and symptoms of IBS can lead to depression or anxiety. Depression and anxiety also can make IBS worse.
At Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida, we work with you, your primary care physician, and your insurance company to ensure a treatment protocol that is designed to meet your specific needs
Gastroenterology Consultants of Central FL was founded in 1996. Our mission is to provide our patients with the highest quality of care with the latest technology available.
Our team of skilled, Board Certified Physicians, and courteous office staff are here to make your health care experience as convenient as possible.