If you're reading this, you might be dealing with repeated problems like bloating, gas, loose stools, hard stools, or tummy pain. This is usually due to a condition known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Even though it might seem difficult to handle, there's no need to worry. Our team of friendly and experienced gastroenterologists at KIMSHEALTH in Kottayam is here to break down IBS for you.
First things first, IBS isn't a disease but rather a chronic disorder that impacts your large intestine. And while it's not known to lead to scary stuff like cancer or drastic changes in bowel tissue, it can significantly disrupt your day-to-day life.
If you've been researching IBS, you may have seen abbreviations like IBS-D, IBS-C, IBS-M, and IBS-U. These are simple codes used to classify IBS. They tell if a person mainly has diarrhea, constipation, a mix of both, or an unclassified type of IBS.
Discovering the sole cause of IBS is quite challenging as it could be caused by various reasons. It could stem from a range of factors like irregularities in your digestive system, increased sensitivity in your gut, changes in gut bacteria, or even specific genes. Even some other factors like everyday stress and certain foods can also trigger IBS symptoms.
So how can you tell if it's IBS? At KIMSHEALTH, our gastroenterologists typically look at your symptoms and medical history. We often use the Rome IV criteria, a set of specific symptoms that act as a guide to diagnose IBS.
However, we also need to rule out other conditions. Therefore, we might recommend a few tests like blood tests, stool tests, endoscopy, or imaging tests.
At KIMSHEALTH, we can certainly assist you in effectively managing its symptoms. This usually involves a multi-pronged approach with diet changes, lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and medication.
Diet: When it comes to diet, our gastroenterology experts can guide you through a food diary or elimination diets to identify potential food triggers. We might also explore a low FODMAP diet, which limits certain types of carbohydrates that are often hard for people with IBS to digest.
Stress management: It is another critical component in managing IBS as high stress can intensify symptoms. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and even regular exercise can help manage stress levels.
Medication: Depending on your specific symptoms, our gastroenterologists may recommend fiber supplements, laxatives, anti-diarrheal medicines, or certain types of antidepressants.
Living with IBS can frequently evoke feelings of isolation, yet rest assured that you are not alone. It is important to recognize that this condition is not self-inflicted. It is a legitimate condition that causes genuine pain, and it is by no means a mere figment of your imagination.
At KIMSHEALTH, we take a personalized approach to patient care. There's no one-size-fits-all treatment for IBS, but through open communication, a bit of trial and error, and a lot of patience, we can devise a management plan that works for you. Remember, the best gastroenterologist in Kottayam is just a call away at KIMSHEALTH. So, if you're ready to take control of your IBS and start feeling better, we're here for you. Let's navigate this journey together!
