Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Northwest Arkansas
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Find a ProviderWhat is IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is most accurately classified as a group of long-term symptoms that may occur in the GI tract. These symptoms can happen as a result of irritation in the stomach, large intestine, or different areas of the gastrointestinal system. IBS troubles commonly occur in answer to absorbing specific foodstuffs, stress, or different life concerns. IBS is an ailment that needs to be managed on a chronic basis.
At GI Alliance of Arkansas, our GI specialists are qualified to treat irritable bowel syndrome and routinely help persons handle their conditions and troubles. To find help with IBS in Arkansas, please contact our practice today.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
There are many IBS symptoms, and they may differ significantly from patient to patient. In the end, it depends on how your gastrointestinal tract responds to the food you eat or the tension you encounter in your life.
IBS indicators could involve:
- Constipation
- Mucus in stool
- Insomnia
- Gut pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Excess flatulence
- Bloating
- Cramps
It is vital to talk to your physician if you have bloody stool, mysterious vomiting, or long-term abdominal pain that stretches to your back. Severe symptoms may suggest a more critical disease, like colorectal cancer. Contact a GI Alliance of Arkansas GI doctor today if you suffer any combination of the above symptoms.
What are the causes of IBS?
Some experts describe IBS as "the brain-gut disorder." The mind controls and governs the function of the digestive system. In theory, that organization is stopped or disabled with IBS, which causes the digestive system to operate unnaturally.
The exact cause of IBS is still unnamed. The walls of the intestines are lined with coats of muscle that compress and relax as they move food from the stomach, through the gastrointestinal system, and to the rectum. Those who have IBS seem to have a disruption in the connection within the brain, the autonomic nervous tract, and the muscles of the gut, consequentially causing excessive or inadequate movement.
The common causes of IBS are:
- Foods that are spicy
- Hormones (Women are substantially more likely to have IBS, and symptoms are often worse around menstrual cycles.)
- Anxiety
- Alcoholic drinks
- Infection
- Foods high in fat
- Caffeine
How is IBS treated?
The board-certified specialists at GI Alliance of Arkansas routinely provide treatment for patients suffering from IBS. A consultation with one of our gastrointestinal experts can help find out the ideal treatment choices for IBS in Arkansas. There are various lifestyle switches that you can undergo to help stop and manage the symptoms of IBS and increase your quality of life. Some of those lifestyle switches include:
- Getting plenty of rest
- Exercising regularly
- Staying hydrated
- Eating foods high in fiber
- Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms
Medicaments might also help to relieve symptoms and maybe even address a few of the primary matters affiliated with irritable bowel syndrome. Drugs utilized to handle IBS include:
- Anti-nausea medications
- Antidepressants
- Pain management medication
- Fiber supplements
- Anti-diarrheal drugs
- Anticholinergic drugs
- Laxatives
Clinical trials and research are continually being administered to reveal better remedies and treatments for IBS. It is additionally a great idea to keep a journal of your symptoms, diet, and stress level to help you comprehend what factors lead to troubles for you.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs
Is irritable bowel syndrome common?
Irritable bowel syndrome can occur in people of all ages; however, it typically develops in adults before they turn 40. IBS impacts about 10 – 15% of individuals in the U.S.
Can IBS be cured?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that cannot be cured, but it may be improved with dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments. Our Northwest Arkansas gastrointestinal specialists can help you make the needed changes to reduce your symptoms.
Is IBS preventable?
What causes IBS is not known at this time, therefore there is no known way to prevent it. However, we know effective changes to manage symptoms. This includes changes to your lifestyle and medication regimen and adding in supplements. Avoiding certain foods and drinks that spark IBS may also help minimize your symptoms.
Is it possible to soothe an IBS flare-up?
There are various methods to reduce those uncomfortable symptoms if you are having an IBS flare-up:
- Apply heat to your lower stomach area for about 15 minutes
- Go for a walk
- Eat a light meal and avoid foods that could aggravate you stomach
- Drink noncaffeinated teas, such as peppermint, ginger, and a lavender tea
- Try to avoid stressful situations
Find assistance for IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome may spark a variety of GI symptoms, but you don't have to spend your life in discomfort. The board-certified GI doctors at GI Alliance of Arkansas give the specialized care needed to diagnose and help manage the disease. To find out more regarding IBS symptoms or to get treatment for IBS in Arkansas, please contact a member of our staff today.
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