Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that causes abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Though IBS doesn’t damage the digestive tract, the symptoms it causes affect daily life. The experts at Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists provide comprehensive care for irritable bowel syndrome, creating treatment plans that ease symptoms and improve quality of life. To get help for your irritable bowel syndrome, call the office in North Wantagh, or South Wantagh, New York, or schedule online today.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder that alters normal bowel function. A functional gastrointestinal disorder refers to conditions that cause digestive discomfort without damaging the GI tract.
IBS develops because of communication problems between the brain and gut. These problems may make the gut more sensitive, causing abdominal pain and bloating. Or, it may change how the bowel muscles move, causing constipation or diarrhea.
IBS is the most common digestive disorder gastroenterologists diagnose.
IBS symptoms vary in type and severity. However, most people with irritable bowel syndrome complain of abdominal pain and bloating, along with changes in bowel habits.
People with IBS may struggle with constipation, diarrhea, or both. They may also feel like they can’t completely empty their bowels.
Symptoms range from mild to severe.
You can expect a patient-centered exam when you visit Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists for an IBS consultation. Your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, including when they started, how often they occur, and how they affect your daily life
They review your medical history and family history and do a physical exam. The experts at Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists may also perform diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork, a stool test, or an X-ray, to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms.
In some cases, the gastroenterologists may recommend a colonoscopy. This minimally invasive procedure allows your gastroenterologist to examine the lining of your GI tract to look for signs of disease.
Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists customizes IBS treatment plans based on your symptoms. Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome might include:
The gastroenterologists may also recommend the low FODMAP diet. FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. This short-term elimination diet eases symptoms and gives your digestive tract a chance to heal.
The low FODMAP diet also helps you identify your trigger foods. After a set period of time, your gastroenterologist has you slowly add back the foods you eliminated to find the ones that cause symptoms.
For expert, irritable bowel syndrome care, call Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.