Tackling and Managing IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
- SAC Health
- Apr 1
- 2 min read
What is IBS? How do I know if I have IBS? How do you treat IBS? Do probiotics help IBS?
by: SAC Health Staff Writer
What is IBS?
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a condition that affects your digestive system. Not everyone’s IBS looks the same, so it can be hard to compare your symptoms to other people’s. In fact, there are four distinct types of IBS with different symptoms:
IBS-D: stomach aches and diarrhea
IBS-C: stomach aches and constipation
IBS-mixed: stomach aches with diarrhea and constipation
IBS-U: symptoms that don’t fit one of the above categories
Other common symptoms of IBS include:
● Bloating
● White mucus
● Migraines
● Pain in your pelvic area
How is IBS diagnosed?
IBS is diagnosed through a combination of symptoms and tests. Your doctor will ask you questions to try and rule out other illnesses and concerns. These questions might include topics like:
● Which symptoms you have
● How long you’ve had symptoms
● Your family history
● Any medications
● Your diet and exercise routines
If your doctor suspects you have IBS, they will then do several tests on your blood and stool to double check for any other possibilities before starting a treatment plan.
How is IBS treated and managed?
There is no cure for IBS, but there are many different ways to manage and treat it so that your symptoms lessen or go away. The best ways to manage your IBS include:
● Taking probiotics and fiber supplements
○ Probiotics are proven to help IBS symptoms, but it’s important to work with your doctor to figure out the best ones for your symptoms and IBS type. However, you can always add foods like low-sugar yogurt to your diet to help give your gut biome a boost.
○ Fiber supplements can go a long way to helping IBS symptoms and are normally safe for all types of IBS. You can also naturally increase your fiber with natural grains, oats, spinach, and other leafy greens.
● Increasing your daily exercise - low to medium impact exercise like yoga, jogging, or swimming for 30 minutes to an hour can help ease IBS pain.
● Changing your eating habits - certain foods can set off IBS episodes, especially dairy products, spicy foods, caffeine, and carbonated drinks
● Reducing stress
● Taking certain medications depending on your type of IBS for diarrhea or constipation - your doctor will have individual recommendations and prescriptions once you’re diagnosed.
The first step to diagnosing and managing your IBS is to talk to your doctor. Make an appointment with your primary care provider at sachealth.org/appointments today and speak to a doctor about your IBS symptoms.
