Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Hattiesburg, MS
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Find a ProviderWhat is IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be best classified as a group of long-term symptoms that appear within the GI tract. These symptoms can present as aggravation in the abdomen, large intestine, or other sections of the gastrointestinal system. IBS indicators generally occur as a result of ingesting specific cuisines, stress, or various life problems. Irritable bowel syndrome is an ailment that must be managed on a chronic basis.
At Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC, our GI providers are trained to address irritable bowel syndrome and regularly help persons manage their ailment and symptoms. To find treatment for IBS in Hattiesburg, MS, please reach out to one of our offices today.
What are the signs of IBS?
There are a number of IBS signs that could occur that may differ very much from person to person. The types of symptoms and their intensity will vary largely based on your body's reaction to the food you eat and/or the amount of stress you experience in your life.
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms may include:
- Excess flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Swelling
- Difficulty sleeping
- Cramps
- Mucus in bowel movements
- Constipation
It is crucial to talk to your doctor if you have blood in your stool, unexplained vomiting, or constant gut discomfort that stretches to your back. Grave symptoms might be evidence of a more critical ailment, like colorectal cancer. Get in touch with a Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC gastroenterologist today if you have any combination of the above symptoms.
What causes IBS?
IBS is sometimes called "the brain-gut disorder." The head commands and governs the operation of the gastrointestinal system. In theory, when IBS develops, that structure is interrupted or weakened, which causes the gastrointestinal system to operate abnormally.
The specific cause of irritable bowel syndrome is still not known. The edges of the bowels are lined with layers of muscle that constrict and slacken as they transport nourishment from the belly, through the GI tract, and to the rectum. Patients who have IBS seem to suffer a disorder in the connection in the middle of the head, the autonomic nervous system, and the musculature of the gut, consequentially causing excessive or inadequate motility.
The chief triggers of IBS include:
- High-fat foods
- Hormones: Women are considerably more likely to suffer from IBS, and troubles are often worse during menstrual cycles.
- Caffeine
- Foods that are spicy
- Alcoholic drinks
- Illness
- Stress
How is IBS treated?
The physicians at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC frequently provide IBS treatment for our patients. A consultation with one of our gastrointestinal practitioners can help establish the ideal treatment options for IBS in Hattiesburg, MS. There are several lifestyle changes you can implement to help hinder and manage the signs of IBS and improve your standard of life. Some of those lifestyle changes include:
- Getting plenty of rest
- Staying hydrated
- Avoiding foods that trigger troubles
- Consuming foods high in fiber
- Exercise
It is also recommended to maintain a diary of your troubling symptoms, foods you consume, and the level of stress you're feeling to help you grasp which causes lead to GI troubles for you.
Certain medications may also help to soothe symptoms and potentially address some of the underlying factors affiliated with irritable bowel syndrome. Medications used to treat IBS include:
- Anti-diarrheal drugs
- Anticholinergic drugs
- Laxatives
- Pain management medication
- Fiber capsules
- Antidepressants
- Anti-nausea medications
Researchers are conducting clinical studies to uncover better remedies and treatments for irritable bowel syndrome.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs
How common is irritable bowel syndrome?
IBS can occur in adults and children, but it commonly occurs before turning 40 years of age. Additionally, IBS impacts between 10 – 15% of individuals in the United States.
Can IBS be cured?
Irritable bowel syndrome is not a condition that can be cured; however, it may be improved with diet as well as making adjustments in your lifestyle. Our Hattiesburg, MS GI specialists are available to guide you while you make the necessary changes to manage your symptoms.
Can irritable bowel syndrome be prevented?
The cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown, so there is not a prevention technique. We do have tried and true ways to manage symptoms. This can include changes in your lifestyle, medication regimen, and vitamin supplements. Cutting out foods and drinks that you know provoke your IBS can also help decrease your symptoms.
Is it possible to soothe an IBS flare-up?
There are ways to calm those uncomfortable symptoms if you’re having an irritable bowel syndrome flare-up. Some suggestions include:
- Apply heat to your lower stomach for about 15 minutes
- Get up and walk or move
- Eat light meals and cut out things that might cause issues to you stomach
- Drink noncaffeinated teas, such as peppermint tea, ginger, and lavender tea
- Reduce stressful situations
Get support for IBS
IBS can trigger an array of intestinal troubles, but it does not have to command your life. The board-certified GI physicians at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC provide the specialized care required to diagnose and help manage the condition. To find out more about IBS symptoms or to get treatment for IBS in Hattiesburg, MS, please talk to a member of our team today.
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