Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can manifest after an infection, due to stress, or with the onset of maturity, often lacking other medical indicators. It may also be associated with chronic pain, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia. This condition is considered chronic and can significantly impact one's quality of life. When traditional medical treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome yield unsatisfactory results, up to fifty percent of individuals turn to alternative and complementary medicine or integrative approaches.
For inquiries, reach out to Dr. Cohen.
Irritable bowel syndrome affects the large intestine and is characterized by digestive issues. Most IBS sufferers experience mild to moderate symptoms that occur sporadically, though some experience severe symptoms that severely disrupt their quality of life. While the symptoms of IBS may resemble those of Crohn's Disease, the two conditions differ, as IBS does not increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Chronic abdominal pain
Discomfort
Bloating
Constipation and/or diarrhea without any detectable organic cause
IBS can cause a range of digestive problems, but everyone’s experience can vary significantly. This variability underscores the importance of working closely with healthcare providers to manage symptoms effectively. The effectiveness of IBS treatments often depends on personal triggers and the specific symptoms encountered.
The diversity in symptom severity and the sporadic nature of flare-ups can make diagnosing IBS challenging. Many individuals may delay seeking medical attention until their discomfort significantly interferes with daily life. Furthermore, gender plays a role in how IBS presents:
Women may experience an increase in symptoms before their menstrual cycle, and pregnancy can exacerbate symptoms. Menopausal women tend to have milder IBS complications. Women with endometriosis have a higher likelihood of experiencing IBS.
Men are less likely to suffer from IBS, but they are not immune. Hormones may partially contribute to the gender disparity, and it is possible that the true number of affected men is higher but underreported due to reluctance to discuss their concerns with doctors.
IBS can manifest in various types, and individuals may experience a combination of these or transitions between them. Understanding these distinctions can help identify when the condition is more severe than a typical stomach ache:
IBS-C: Constipation-predominant IBS
IBS-D: Diarrhea-predominant IBS
IBS-M/A: IBS with alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea
PI-IBS: Post-infectious IBS, occurring after a gastrointestinal infection
Post-diverticulitis IBS: A risk for those who have experienced diverticulitis
Triggers for IBS symptoms can vary from one individual to another. To identify these triggers, patients may consider keeping a journal to record symptoms, lifestyle details, diet, and stress levels before and during symptom exacerbations.
Dietary choices: Consuming excessive alcohol, sugar, fat, and processed foods can worsen digestive conditions, including IBS. Some individuals may also be sensitive to specific healthy foods like artichokes, cabbage, and peas. Dairy, particularly lactose or casein, may be problematic, as can certainly fruits, beans, and nuts.
Stress: Prolonged stress can affect nearly everyone's digestive system, with IBS sufferers often exhibiting heightened sensitivity to stress, leading to symptom flares.
For personalized IBS treatment options, consider reaching out to Dr. Dana Cohen MD. Dr. Cohen has successfully treated IBS patients using integrative techniques, such as probiotics, dietary supplements, and breathing exercises, which can promote a healthier gut environment, alleviate inflammation, reduce cramping, minimize diarrhea, and alleviate pain associated with IBS.
Contact Dr. Dana Cohen today for more information.