Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Tulsa, OK
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Find a ProviderWhat is IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is described as a group of lasting symptoms in your digestive system. These symptoms could be caused by irritation in the stomach, colon, or different sections of the gastrointestinal system. IBS symptoms typically arise in reaction to absorbing certain stressors, worry, or other life problems. Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that must be handled on a lasting basis.
At Adult Gastroenterology Associates, our GI providers are trained to address irritable bowel syndrome and routinely help people manage this condition. To find treatment for IBS in Tulsa, OK, please contact one of our locations to request a consultation today.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
There are many different symptoms of IBS, which could vary from person to person. Ultimately, it depends on how your intestines respond to the food you consume or the stress you deal with in your life.
IBS symptoms could present as:
- Excess flatulence
- Gut discomfort
- Constipation
- Mucus in bowel movements
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea
- Cramps
- Diarrhea
- Swelling
It is important to contact your provider if you have blood in your stool, unexplained vomiting, or long-term abdominal pain that stretches to your spine. These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as colorectal cancer. Contact an Adult Gastroenterology Associates location near you to connect with a GI provider as soon as possible if you experience a combination of any of the above symptoms.
What causes IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome is sometimes referred to as “the brain-gut disorder.” The brain leads and regulates the operation of the gastrointestinal system. In theory, with IBS, that organization is stopped or impaired, which causes the gastrointestinal tract to operate abnormally.
The cause of irritable bowel syndrome is still unknown. The walls of the intestines are inlaid with levels of muscle that constrict and relax as they move nourishment from the stomach, through the GI tract, and to the rectum. Those who have IBS appear to have a disconnect with the brain, the autonomic nervous system, and the muscle systems of the abdominal area, resulting in excessive or insufficient motility.
The primary causes of IBS are:
- Hormones (women are considerably more likely to suffer from IBS, and symptoms are often worse during menstrual periods.)
- Spicy foods
- Alcohol
- Anxiety
- Illness
- Caffeinated drinks
- Foods high in fat
Can IBS be treated?
At Adult Gastroenterology Associates, our providers often treat patients with IBS in Tulsa, OK. At your consultation, our GI providers will assess your symptoms and help you find the best treatment to relieve them. There are multiple lifestyle modifications that you can make to help prevent and control the symptoms of IBS. A few of those lifestyle modifications are:
- Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms
- Staying hydrated
- Exercising regularly
- Obtaining plenty of sleep
- Eating foods rich in fiber
Medications could also help to soothe symptoms and even treat some of the underlying issues connected with IBS. Medications used to address IBS include:
- Fiber capsules
- Anti-nausea medications
- Laxatives
- Anti-diarrheal drugs
- Anticholinergic drugs
- Antidepressants
- Pain management drugs
Clinical trials and research are constantly being carried out to discover better solutions and treatments for irritable bowel syndrome. It is also a good plan to maintain a log of your symptoms, foods you consume, and stress levels to help you understand what factors cause your symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs
How common is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome can occur in both adults and children; however, it often develops in individuals prior to turning 40 years old. Additionally, irritable bowel syndrome impacts about 10 – 15% of people in the United States.
Can irritable bowel syndrome be cured?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that cannot be cured; however, it can likely get better through changes to diet and lifestyle adjustments. Our Tulsa, OK providers are ready to help you make needed adjustments to manage your irritable bowel syndrome.
Is there a way to prevent irritable bowel syndrome?
The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not known, so there is no prevention technique at this time. We do, however, have tried and true methods to help reduce symptoms. This can include changes to your current lifestyle and medicines and adding in health supplements. Reducing foods and certain beverages that provoke IBS can also help ease symptoms.
Can an IBS flare-up be soothed?
There are ways to minimize the uncomfortable symptoms of IBS if you are dealing with an flare-up:
- Use a heating pad on your lower abdomen for around 15 minutes
- Take a walk
- Keep your meals light and avoid things that might aggravate your digestive system
- Sip noncaffeinated teas, including peppermint, ginger, and lavender tea
- Minimize stress
Manage your IBS symptoms
IBS can trigger a variety of intestinal troubles, but it does not have to control your life. The board-certified GI providers at your nearest Adult Gastroenterology Associates location can provide the specialized care needed to diagnose and help control your condition. To learn more about IBS symptoms or to get treatment for IBS in Tulsa, OK, please contact a location in your community today.
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