CONDITIONS TREATED
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Irritable bowel syndrome

What is Irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a long-term condition affecting the large intestine. Severe symptoms and complications are rare in IBS patients. Diet, lifestyle and stress management can help people with the management of their symptoms. Medication and counselling can help with more severe symptoms. IBS does not result in intestinal tissue alterations or an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

IBS Symptoms

IBS symptoms and indicators vary from person to person, but they are usually present for a long time. They include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Cramps
  • Bloating
  • Bowel movement changes in appearance
  • Diarrhoea
  • Constipation
  • Changes in bowel movement frequency
  • Bloating
  • Increased Gas
  • Mucus in the stool

IBS Triggers

IBS symptoms can be brought on by:

  • Food: Many people experience worsening IBS symptoms after eating or drinking certain foods or beverages, such as wheat, dairy products, citrus fruits, beans, cabbage, milk, and carbonated beverages.
  • Stress: During increased stress, most patients with IBS report worse or more frequent signs and symptoms.

IBS Treatment

Symptom relief is the primary goal of IBS treatment so you can live as normally as possible. Most symptoms can typically be managed by reducing stress and implementing dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

Patients with IBS should:

  • Avoid meals that make your symptoms worse
  • Consume high-fibre foods
  • Drink a lot of water
  • Exercise regularly
  • Get enough rest

Dr Mokgoko may recommend medicine as well as the elimination of high gas foods, gluten and fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyps (FODMAPs) from your diet.

FAQ:

1. Is IBS a serious condition?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a long-term, chronic disorder. It can be excruciating. However, it has no long-term effects on your intestines. The condition does not lead to severe complications such as cancer.

2. Do inflammatory bowel diseases go away?

Because IBS is a chronic ailment, it may take a long time to resolve. On the other hand, medication and lifestyle modifications can help you manage your illness and lessen the number of episodes you have.

3. Does IBS get worse with age?

Although it is commonly considered that IBS declines with age, specialists estimate that roughly 10% of the elderly are affected.