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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel SyndromeIrritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that affects the function of the small and large bowels. It is prevalent in people of all ages, though usually diagnosed before age 35, affecting 1 out of 8.5 people.

Although IBS does not damage the digestive tract or cause other health problems, its symptoms are uncomfortable, embarrassing and life-changing. However, these may also be a sign of some other disorder.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Women

IBS can include:

  • Cramping or abdominal pain
  • Difficult, infrequent or altered bowel habits
  • Diarrhea or frequent loose stools
  • Gas & bloating
  • Mucus in stool
  • Pellet-shaped or ribbon-shaped stool

What causes IBS?

The causes of IBS are not known. In fact, IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning that all other potential causes of the symptoms must first be ruled out. Although IBS appears to be related to improper intestinal muscle contraction and movement of stool, it behaves like an abnormal reaction to the body’s normal processing of food. It is usually a disorder of the small or large intestine. Ultimately, there are many factors that may play a role in IBS — including diet and stress — that must be considered.

Diagnosing & Treating IBS

Suspecting you have IBS is far from a diagnosis. Your symptoms could be related to another, more serious problem, such as cancer, infection, or Inflammatory Bowel Disease. To rule out these and other conditions and get the relief you want and deserve, you need the care of an informed, highly capable gastrointestinal specialist.Irritable Bowel Syndrome

At Suburban Gastroenterology, our board-certified gastroenterologists provide the knowledge and expertise you need for your gastrointestinal problems. With specialty training and advanced and comprehensive capabilities, our physicians are able to determine if your symptoms are IBS or are related to another disorder or condition. Most important of all, we help relieve your symptoms and treat any underlying problems with the compassion, personal dedication and heartfelt concern you deserve.

To get individualized care backed by experience, advanced capability, and a focus on results, call us today: (630) 527-6450 or use our online Request an Appointment form.

 

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