What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a long-term functional condition of the digestive system often triggered by certain foods, stress, or anxiety. The main symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain and cramps, bloating, and constipation or diarrhea.. Managing IBS usually requires lifestyle changes and ongoing medical treatment.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Symptoms include:

  • Stomach pain and cramps
  • Bloating and gas
  • Change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both)

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Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The exact cause of IBS is not yet clear, however several theories exist:

  • Impaired muscle contractions: Vigorous contractions of the intestines can lead to spastic colon, and can cause pain and diarrhea.
  • Stress and anxiety: People with anxiety are more likely to suffer from symptoms of IBS, as stress and anxiety are known to affect the intestines.
  • Infections: IBS can develop after a severe gastrointestinal infection causes by bacteria or viruses
  • Changes in gut microbiome: An imbalance in the normal intestinal flora often due to use of antibiotics may contribute to the development of IBS
  • Certain foods are thought to aggravate IBS such as dairy products and legumes

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Risk Factors

Risk factors for IBS include:

  • Age: It primarily affects young people and is less common in those over 50.
  • Gender: IBS is more prevalent in females than males.
  • Family history: The condition tends to run in families.
  • Lifestyle: People with stressful lifestyles are more likely to experience IBS.

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When to See a Doctor for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

You should seek medical attention if:

  • You have persistent abdominal pain
  • You observe any bleeding while passing stool.
  • There is recurrent vomiting.
  • Pain doesn’t improve after passing stool.
  • You have diarrhea that wakes you up from sleep
  • You have unintentional weight loss

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Diagnosis

Diagnosis:

There is no specific test to rule out IBS, but rather it is diagnosed by carefully evaluating the patient’s symptoms, medical history and family history. Your gastroenterologist may order tests to rule out other conditions which have symptoms similar to IBS. Examples include celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), lactose intolerance, and SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

Some tests which may be ordered include:

Blood tests: To check for anemia and celiac disease

Stool tests: To check for gastrointestinal infections , inflammation, or malabsorption

X-ray or CT scan of the abdomen: To check for any obstruction and ensure other organs are healthy

Lactose intolerance tests: These help exclude lactose intolerance which can cause symptoms similar to IBS, such as abdominal cramps, bloating and diarrhea

Breath test for bacterial overgrowth: This test checks for excessive bacteria in the small intestine, a condition more common in people who have had bowel surgery, diabetes, or other conditions that slow digestion.

Endoscopy or colonoscopy: This may be necessary if there is rectal bleeding or unexplained anemia. It involves inserting a camera into the gastrointestinal tract to examine the intestinal lining and take samples to rule out intestinal issues.

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Treatment

Treatment of IBS:

Dietary changes:

Avoid foods that cause excessive gas and bloating like lactose (which is found in high quantities in milk and ice cream), gluten, and some legumes and cruciferous vegetables.

Increasing dietary fiber (either by adding certain foods to the diet or using fiber supplements) may relieve symptoms of IBS, particularly if you have constipation

It is sometimes useful to keep a food journal to identify potential trigger foods for your symptoms

Lifestyle changes:

Practice stress reducing activities such as yoga and meditation

Medications:

Medications may sometimes be indicated for people who continue to have symptoms despite dietary and lifestyle changes.

Medications are aimed at reducing the symptoms, and include laxatives, anti-spasmodics, or anti-diarrheals.

Why Choose IBS Treatment at Reem Hospital, Abu Dhabi?

At Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi, we are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art technology and top-notch gastroenterologists for an exceptional Gastrointestinal care experience. Our focus is on evidence based and patient-centered care, ensuring a hassle-free process to guarantee patient satisfaction and healthcare excellence.

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Written By
Dr. Rahaf Wagdy

Medical Content Writer

Dr. Rahaf Wagdy is an Egyptian nuclear radiologist and medical content creator who merges her clinical expertise with digital creativity. With over five years of experience in medical content writing in both Arabic and English, she is dedicated to simplifying...

Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Sherine Abdalla

Consultant Gastroenterologist

Dr. Sherine Abdalla is an American board-certified consultant in gastroenterology and hepatology. She earned her medical degree from the University of Alexandria in Egypt before completing her residency in internal medicine and an advanced subspecialty fellowship in gastroenterology and hepatology...

Meet Our Gastroenterologists

Dr. Emad Al Rahmani

Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Consultant Gastroenterology & Hepatology - Chief Medical Officer
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Dr. Louay Roueili

Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Specialist Gastroenterology & Hepatology
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Dr. Marwan Dadoush

Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Consultant Gastroenterology
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Dr. Sherine Abdalla

Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Consultant Gastroenterologist
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FAQs on Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment

  • Does IBS go away?

  • Can probiotics help in managing IBS symptoms?

  • Are there any foods that should be avoided with IBS?

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الحمد لله علي التعافي ورحلة العلاج اولا هذا من فضل ربي ثم مجهودات القائمين علي المستشفي والعياده الدكتور احمد عبدالفتاح بيومي نوفل وطبعا مينفعش انسي الممرضين ولا الاستقبال الاستاذه كريمه علي... see more

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