Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Though not life-threatening, IBS can significantly impact the quality of your life. It’s important to understand the symptoms, causes, and management options for IBS and how you can live comfortably with this condition.
Living With Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome can be an irritating issue to deal with and can impact much of your daily life. It’s important to understand what symptoms to look for to know when to talk to your gastroenterologist for a diagnosis and care. Common symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Changes in bowel movements
While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, several factors could contribute to its development. It could be exacerbated by a poor diet, stress, gastrointestinal infections, and irregularities in gut health. It’s important to address what could be irritating your condition and making it difficult to manage.
While IBS has no cure, various management strategies can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:
- Adopting a low-FODMAP diet
- Keeping a food diary to identify and avoid trigger foods
- Maintaining regular physical activity
- Managing stress
- Using probiotics
- Staying hydrated
If you experience persistent symptoms that affect your daily life, it is important to seek medical advice. Your gastroenterologist can help diagnose IBS and rule out other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease, which can present with similar symptoms.
Contact Our Gastroenterologist Today
Make sure you understand how irritable bowel syndrome can affect you and what you can do to manage your symptoms. Call your gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Physicians in Alexandria, VA, at (703) 751-5763 to learn more about IBS and how it can affect you.
