Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Q: What are the symptoms of IBS?

In addition to the primary symptoms of diarrhea , constipation , and abdominal pain , you may also experience: Bad breath Heartburn Frequent urination Nausea or vomiting Muscle pain Headaches Fatigue Most patients with IBS have periods of remission that alternate with flare-ups. Certain foods, alcohol, stress and hormonal changes may trigger an IBS flare-up.

Q: What are the tests for IBS?

Testing may be performed to identify celiac disease , lactose intolerance, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Your doctor at Peak Gastroenterology Associates may also recommend diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan, to evaluate abdominal structures or a colonoscopy to examine your large intestine.

At Peak Gastroenterology Associates, we deliver compassionate GI specialist care to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Our personalized treatments aim to alleviate symptoms to enhance comfort, quality of life, and overall health.

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder, affecting about 12 percent of all adults. The condition causes abdominal pain and bowel problems that hinder the enjoyment of everyday life. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects the large intestine. It’s characterized by a combination of abdominal pain and altered bowel habits—either constipation, diarrhea, or a mix of both.

What Causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

The exact cause of IBS is not known, but several factors are believed to play a role:

Abnormal gastrointestinal tract movements
Increased sensitivity to pain in the gut
Food sensitivities, potentially related to poor absorption of sugars or acids
Psychological factors such as stress and anxiety
Genetics, as the condition can run in families

What Are the Symptoms?

IBS symptoms vary but typically include:

Abdominal pain or cramping that is often relieved by passing a bowel movement
Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between both)
Bloating and gas
Mucus in the stool
The feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement

How Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treated?

Management of IBS often requires a combination of approaches tailored to the individual’s symptoms and triggers:

Dietary Changes: Implementing a low FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) diet to identify and eliminate trigger foods. Saccharides and polyols are sugars.
Medication: These prescriptions may include fiber supplements, laxatives, antidiarrheal agents, and antispasmodic medications.
Probiotics: To help balance intestinal flora.
Stress Management: Techniques such as counseling, regular exercise, yoga, or meditation can help.

Why Choose Us?

At Peak Gastroenterology Associates, we understand the challenges of living with IBS. Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that alleviates symptoms and improves your overall quality of life. We are honored to be leaders in gastroenterology, engaging in clinical research and evaluating newer therapies, allowing us to ensure you receive the most effective care possible, all in a supportive, friendly, and caring environment.

The board-certified GI specialists at Peak Gastroenterology Associates have extensive experience crafting customized treatments that meet each patient’s healthcare needs at their Colorado Springs, Denver, and Lone Tree, Colorado clinics. Call the nearest clinic or use the online booking feature today to schedule an appointment.

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQ

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disease that’s defined by two primary symptoms: abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. You may have IBS with constipation, diarrhea, or both.

What does IBS feel like?

Though your abdominal pain may vary, patients often describe it as a constant, dull ache with occasional episodes of sharp pain. IBS pain usually affects your lower abdomen and improves after a bowel movement.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

In addition to the primary symptoms of diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, you may also experience:

Bad breath
Heartburn
Frequent urination
Nausea or vomiting
Muscle pain
Headaches
Fatigue

Most patients with IBS have periods of remission that alternate with flare-ups. Certain foods, alcohol, stress and hormonal changes may trigger an IBS flare-up.

How do the gastroenterologists at Peak Gastro diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

IBS is primarily identified by symptoms because there aren’t any diagnostic tests for the condition. Your doctor at Peak Gastroenterology Associates evaluates your symptoms, performs an exam, and orders diagnostic tests to rule out other health problems that may cause the same symptoms.

What are the tests for IBS?

Testing may be performed to identify celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Your doctor at Peak Gastroenterology Associates may also recommend diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan, to evaluate abdominal structures or a colonoscopy to examine your large intestine.

Can Irritable Bowel Syndrome be treated?

The Peak Gastroenterology Associates GI specialists understand that IBS significantly impacts the quality of your life. They work together with you to develop a multimodal treatment plan to bring you relief.

What are the treatments for IBS?

Many patients with IBS find that their symptoms improve when they make changes like increasing fiber consumption or following a special diet. Your doctor also helps you identify which foods may trigger your flare-ups and then develops a plan to help you avoid those foods.

Are there medicines to treat IBS?

Your doctor may prescribe a medication that targets your symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bowel spasms, and diarrhea. If all other treatment options fail, some patients are good candidates for medications that treat severe diarrhea, decrease bacterial overgrowth, and relieve constipation. However, these medications can also cause side effects, so they’re not recommended for everyone with IBS.

If you have abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation, call Peak Gastroenterology Associates or book an appointment online. We serve the regions of Denver, Colorado Springs, and Lone Tree.