Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in the world, but it can be difficult to diagnose and treat without the right care. At East Coast Gastroenterology and Endoscopy in Patchogue, New York, Christopher Tomaino, MD, is an experienced gastroenterologist who understands the signs and symptoms of IBS. He uses the latest technology and equipment to diagnose and treat IBS in adults of all ages. To learn more, call East Coast Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, or schedule an appointment online today.

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Commonly called IBS, irritable bowel syndrome is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder that causes abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and other uncomfortable symptoms in the large intestine. Functional gastrointestinal disorders affect the way your GI tract works, but they don’t develop from a structural abnormality.

While doctors don’t know exactly what causes IBS, it’s most common in younger adults, particularly women. There’s also a link between stress and anxiety and IBS. You’re also more likely to have irritable bowel syndrome if you have a family history of the disorder.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?

What makes irritable bowel syndrome difficult to diagnose and treat is that its symptoms are constantly evolving, and they vary from person to person. While one patient may have chronic constipation, another may struggle with diarrhea. Some symptoms of IBS come and go, while others remain constant.

Common signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal cramps
• Changes in frequency and appearance of bowel movements
• Bloating
• Gas
• Mucus in stool
• Feeling like you can’t fully evacuate your bowels

IBS has many different types, including IBS-D (diarrhea) and IBS-C (constipation). Some patients fluctuate between the two, which can change their symptoms.

How do doctors diagnose irritable bowel syndrome?

Because IBS has no single test, it typically takes a process of elimination to diagnose. At East Coast Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, Dr. Tomaino may need to rule out other disorders, such as ulcerative colitis or colon cancer, before making your IBS diagnosis.

After discussing your symptoms and reviewing your medical history, Dr. Tomaino may order additional tests, such as blood work and urinalysis, as well as a colonoscopy or upper endoscopy.

A colonoscopy is a procedure that involves inserting a thin, flexible tube into your colon through your rectum. The tube, called a colonoscope, contains a camera and light, so Dr. Tomaino can view the inside of your large intestine. An upper endoscopy is a similar test in which he inserts a long, flexible tube into your esophagus through your throat to view your upper digestive tract.

In addition to these tests, Dr. Tomaino may recommend keeping a food diary to determine whether your IBS symptoms have a link to certain foods.

What are the treatments for irritable bowel syndrome?

While there is no single treatment for IBS, finding out what triggers your symptoms can help you manage your condition. Stress, diet, and physical activity levels all play a role in triggering an IBS flare-up.

Treatments Dr. Tomaino may recommend to manage IBS include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Diet changes
• Exercise
• Stress management
• Medication

Antispasmodics are drugs that help control muscle spasms. They’ve proven to be helpful in some severe cases of IBS, while antidepressants can help treat IBS with diarrhea.

To schedule an appointment with East Coast Gastroenterology and Endoscopy for irritable bowel syndrome testing and treatment, call or book online now.