The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be scary and even embarrassing, but it doesn’t have to be. With the help of Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida can set up a treatment plan to help you make the most of your day.

What is Irrigable bowl syndrome (IBS)?

There are a few different names for Irritable Bowel syndrome. Some call it, irritable colon, spastic colon, or even irritable bowel. Over 12% of the those living in the United State suffer from this disease, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The types of IBS include:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed (IBS-M)

What causes IBS?

While the exact cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not known, it is thought to be how the brain communicates with the gut and nervous system. Research has shown that stress does not cause IBS, it can trigger the symptoms.

Symptoms of IBS

Symptoms of IBS can range depending on the type

Stomach cramps

Upset stomach

Diarrhea

Constipation

Bloating

Gas

Frequency of bowel movement

Changes in stool appearance and consistency

If you experience these symptoms you should talk to your doctor, especially if they are accompanied by:

Severe abdominal pain

Fever

Blood in the stool

Bleeding

Weight loss

Who is at risk for IBS?

Those with a family history of infections of the digestive tract and IBS are at a higher risk. IBS is also more common in those under 50 years of age. Women are twice as likely to experience IBS than men.

How is IBS Treated?

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be reduced by dietary and lifestyle changes. There are a variety of new medications on the market that have helped control the symptoms.

How to find help for IBS

If you experience the discomfort or symptoms associated with IBS, our team of specialists at Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida can help. We understand how the complications of IBS can affect your life. We can help you find relief and comfort from IBS symptoms, so you can reclaim your life.

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.