Ibs IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA

While the definitive cause of IBS is unknown, there are several factors that contribute to the development of this condition.  A severe infection that is caused by a virus or bacteria, or a bacterial overgrowth can spur the development of IBS.  Muscle contractions within the walls of the intestines can cause gas, diarrhea, and eventually the symptoms that define irritable bowel syndrome.  The fungi and bacteria that make up your gut’s microbe, when altered have been shown to cause IBS as well.

There are several symptoms of IBS, however any specific symptoms persist for a significant period of time, those can be strong signs of irritable bowel syndrome.  Bloating, cramping, and other abdominal pain that occurs during a bowel movement is a common sign of IBS.  If your BM pattern or schedule changes, or the appearance of your stool is altered, you should consult a gastroenterologist.

Your bowel habits should dictate when you should see a doctor, specifically a gastroenterologist.  If you’ve experienced weight loss, rectal bleeding, unexpected vomiting, nocturnal diarrhea, trouble swallowing, iron deficiency, or persistent abdominal pain that can’t be relieved from a bowel movement, you need to see a physician.

There are a variety of risk factors that can lead to the development of IBS.  This condition tends to impact those under the age of 50.  Heredity can also play a role if there is a family history of Irritable bowel syndrome.  Women tend to experience IBS more often than men as well.

It typically takes about an hour after a colonoscopy to recover from the sedative. You will need someone to drive you home after your recovery.  It will take the rest of the day for the effects to wear off, so it is important not to drive, operate machinery, or make critical decisions for at least a day. 

Depending on the different activities done during the colonoscopy, you may have some dietary restrictions (i.e., if a polyp was removed, etc.).  

If you’ve experienced the common symptoms of IBS, this condition can be triggered and amplified by diet and stress.  Food allergies or intolerances can worsen your symptoms.  Dairy, wheat, citrus, carbonation, and other specific foods or drinks can all trigger the symptoms of IBS.  Stressful experiences can also aggravate a chronic case of IBS.  

The treatment for IBS is focused on the relief of symptoms.  Oftentimes, changes to diet and lifestyle can alleviate the discomfort that IBS creates.  High fiber diets, exercise, a healthy sleep schedule, and hydration can often alleviate irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.  There are also several medications that range from SSRI antidepressants, anti-diarrheal medications, laxatives, pain medications, and fiber supplements can be effective in relieving the symptoms of IBS.