IBS Specialist

Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. Our Services IBS
Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. - - Gastroenterology & Hepatology

Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A.

Gastroenterology & Hepatology located in Annapolis, MD, Kent Island, MD, Odenton, MD, Bowie, MD, Pasadena, MD & Greenbelt, MD

Unexplained symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea could be due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you're experiencing problems like these, the experienced team at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. can help. They provide expert diagnosis and effective IBS treatments at their facilities in Annapolis, Stevensville, Odenton, Bowie, and Pasadena, Maryland. Call the office nearest you to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online today.

IBS Q & A

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

IBS is a widespread digestive problem affecting the large intestine. 

The symptoms of IBS may include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Cramping
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or both
  • Excessive gas
  • Mucus in the stool

Many patients who have IBS find these problems come and go in cycles. Sometimes you may experience intense symptoms, while at others, you could be symptom-free.

IBS is distressing and unpleasant, and often very painful, but it doesn't cause lasting harm to your gastrointestinal system.

IBS shouldn't be confused with IBD (inflammatory bowel disease). The two conditions share some similar symptoms, but IBD is a far more severe medical issue that can have life-changing consequences.

What causes IBS?

There's no single, identifiable cause for IBS. However, your chances of developing the condition increase if you have certain risk factors, including:

  • A family history of IBS
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
  • Chronic stress
  • Gastrointestinal infections
  • Intestinal inflammation
  • Nervous system abnormalities
  • Weak muscle contractions in your intestines

IBS typically worsens in response to certain triggers, which could be anything from particular foods to changes in your hormone levels.

How is IBS treated?

There's no simple cure for IBS, but the team at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates can provide a personalized treatment plan to minimize your symptoms.

There are medications available to address specific IBS symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. 

These medications include:

  • Alosetron
  • Rifaximin
  • Lubiprostone
  • Eluxadoline
  • Linaclotide

Many patients with IBS don't require medication and manage their condition successfully by making certain lifestyle changes. 

Ways in which you can ease your IBS include eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, getting regular exercise, and making sure you have sufficient good-quality sleep.

Identifying and avoiding anything that triggers your IBS can be very effective, too. Many people find that following the low-FODMAP diet is also beneficial.

FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, which are types of sugars that the body finds harder to absorb. FODMAP foods can aggravate IBS symptoms, but the low-FODMAP diet helps you avoid them.

If you have IBS symptoms, you can get the relief you need at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. Call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.

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