Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal condition that affects millions of Americans every year. IBS can disrupt your daily routine with symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements.
Fortunately, an NYU gastroenterologist can help manage these symptoms and improve your quality of life. Gastrointestinal (GI) specialists have the knowledge and tools to understand your unique condition and guide you toward effective relief.
Let us explore how a gastroenterologist can assess your condition, provide treatments, and offer long-term symptom relief.
What Is IBS
IBS is a common disorder affecting the large intestine (colon). It causes uncomfortable symptoms like gas, cramps, altered bowel habits, and abdominal discomfort. IBS is classified into three types based on symptoms:
- IBS-D: Diarrhea is the primary symptom.
- IBS-C: Constipation is the primary symptom.
- IBS-M: A mixture of diarrhea and constipation occurs.
Unlike other gastrointestinal diseases, IBS does not damage the digestive tract. However, it can significantly impact daily life. Understanding its triggers, including stress, diet, and gut-brain communication issues, is essential for effective management.
How an NYU Gastroenterologist Diagnoses IBS
An NYU gastroenterologist specializes in the study and treatment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Their expertise helps identify whether your symptoms are caused by IBS or another GI condition.
Here is what a diagnostic process might look like.
Detailed Medical History
The doctor gathers information about your symptoms, diet, and lifestyle habits and evaluates if any family members have similar conditions.
Physical Examination
Your gastro specialist may conduct a physical exam focusing on the abdominal region to check for swelling or tenderness.
Diagnostic Tests
These tests identify or rule out other conditions, like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or celiac disease. Common diagnostic tests include:
- Blood Tests: To check for anemia, inflammation, or infection.
- Stool Tests: To detect infections or abnormalities in your bowel movements.
- Colonoscopy or Endoscopy: Allows a close view of the digestive tract lining.
- Lactose Intolerance Tests: To determine if dairy triggers symptoms.
With this comprehensive assessment, your GI specialist can confirm whether you have IBS and suggest treatment options tailored to your needs.
Treatment Options for IBS
Treating IBS involves managing triggers and symptoms. Here are some common methods used by GI specialists.
Dietary Changes
The following are some dietary changes that a gastroenterologist can recommend.
Low-FODMAP Diet
Foods high in certain carbohydrates, known as FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) , can aggravate IBS symptoms. A GI specialist may recommend reducing these foods in your diet.
Fiber Adjustments
For IBS-C, increasing soluble fiber (like oats or psyllium) can help relieve constipation. For IBS-D, limiting insoluble fiber (found in whole grains) may reduce diarrhea.
Tailored Meal Plans
Some patients benefit from avoiding caffeine, spicy foods, or artificial sweeteners, depending on their specific triggers.
Medications
An NYU gastroenterologist may prescribe medications based on your IBS type:
- Antidiarrheals: Such as loperamide (Imodium) for IBS-D.
- Laxatives: Such as polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX) for IBS-C.
- Antispasmodics: To reduce stomach cramps.
- Gut-Directed Antibiotics: Rifaximin (Xifaxan) can help reduce symptoms caused by bacteria in the gut.
- Tricyclic Antidepressants: Low doses of these medications can reduce pain by calming nerve signals in the gut.
Several medications are available for IBS treatment based on symptoms and severity. These include:
- Alosetron (Lotronex): This medicine is used for severe IBS-D in women unresponsive to other treatments.
- Eluxadoline (Viberzi): This reduces IBS-D symptoms by calming intestinal muscles.
- Lubiprostone (Amitiza): Lubiprostone increases fluid in the intestines, easing IBS-C symptoms. This is mainly for women with severe cases.
- Linaclotide (Linzess): Linaclotide enhances fluid secretion to aid IBS-C. This medicine may cause diarrhea if not timed correctly before meals.
These medications are tailored to specific IBS subtypes and symptom intensity, making it essential for treatment plans to be guided by a healthcare professional.
Lifestyle Modifications
An NYU gastroenterologist can also recommend the following lifestyle changes.
Stress Management
Stress is a major IBS trigger. Your GI specialist might suggest mindfulness practices, meditation, or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
Exercise
Physical activity supports digestion and reduces stress-induced symptoms.
Probiotics
Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that may improve gut health. Over-the-counter products or medically guided options can help maintain a balanced digestive environment.
NYU Gastroenterologist in Syracuse, NY
IBS symptoms often overlap with other GI disorders, such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even colorectal cancer. Ignoring your symptoms could delay diagnosis or treatment for a more serious condition.
At the Department of Medicine at SUNY: Upstate Medical University, our expert team of gastroenterologists offers top-quality care tailored to your unique needs. Our dedicated GI specialists will guide you through every step of diagnosis and treatment to ensure lasting relief.
Schedule your consultation today and take control of your gastrointestinal health by directly calling our NYU gastroenterologist. We look forward to serving you!
