DIAGNOSING & TREATING

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

IN A COMFORTABLE AND ACCESSIBLE ENVIRONMENT

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is very common condition that can lead to numerous gastrointestinal symptoms, such as:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Cramping
  • Bloating/gas
  • Diarrhoea
  • Constipation

The exact cause of IBS is not known. It is diagnosed after other conditions with similar symptoms have been excluded after a thorough assessment. Serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, and colon cancer can often present with similar symptoms, and may need to be ruled out before a diagnosis of IBS can be made.

Although the reasons for developing IBS are not completely understood, there is extensive published research supporting various treatment strategies, including:

  • Dietary modification (lactose free or low FODMAP diets)
  • Intestinal muscle relaxants
  • Bulking or osmotic laxatives
  • Anti-diarrhoeal medications
  • Simethicone
  • Iberogast
  • Probiotics
  • Low dose tricyclic antidepressants

As these treatment strategies are aimed at relieving symptoms, it is crucial that a thorough assessment is performed prior to reaching a diagnosis of IBS. The team at Glengarry Gastroenterology are experienced gastroenterologists that can thoroughly evaluate your IBS symptoms, confirm your diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatments to help improve your symptoms.