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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): symptoms, diagnosis and treatment at Elytis Hospital

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas , and changes in bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between these). Although IBS is not a life-threatening condition, it can significantly affect quality of life.

The Elytis Hospitalwe understand the impact SCI can have on our patients and are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care.

What kind of symptoms can you expect?

Symptoms of IBS vary from person to person and can be mild or severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Diaree
  • Constipation
  • Alternating between diarrhea and constipation
  • Feeling of incomplete evacuation
  • Mucus in the stool

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to schedule a consultation at the gastroenterology department of Elytis Hospital to receive an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Diagnosis at Elytis Hospital

There is no specific test to diagnose IBS. At Elytis Hospital, our experienced gastroenterologists will make the diagnosis based on:

  • Patient's medical history and symptoms: the doctor will ask questions about symptoms, their duration and triggers.
  • Physical exam: Your doctor will examine your abdomen for any tenderness or abnormalities.
  • Rule out other conditions: Additional investigations, such as blood tests, stool analysis, colonoscopy or upper GI endoscopy, may be needed to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Elytis Hospital has state-of-the-art technology to perform these investigations quickly and efficiently.

Treatment at Elytis Hospital

Although there is no cure for IBS, at Elytis Hospital we offer a range of therapeutic options that can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life:

  • Lifestyle changes:
    • Diet: Our doctors will help you identify and avoid trigger foods. Increased fiber intake and proper hydration can also be beneficial.
    • Stress management: we can recommend relaxation techniques to reduce symptoms.
    • Regular exercise: we will encourage you to exercise regularly to improve digestive function.
  • Medication:
    • Antispasmodics, antidiarrheals, laxatives, antidepressants: your doctor will prescribe the right medicines to manage your symptoms.
  • Complementary therapies:
    • Probiotics: we can recommend probiotics to balance your gut flora.
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): we can refer you to a CBT specialist to help you manage stress.

Elytis Hospital is distinguished by its comprehensive medical expertise, modern technology, personalized approach and focus on prevention and education. Do not hesitate to call on the expertise of Elytis Hospital to manage the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and improve your quality of life!

Latest medical review:

13.02.2025, Dr. Alina Moroșanu - Medical Specialist

References:

  • Adriani, A., et. al. "Irritable bowel syndrome: the clinical approach". Panminerva Medica, 2018, vol. 60, no. 4, pg. 213 - 222.
  • Camilleri, Michael (Dr.), et. al. "Diagnosis and Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Review". JAMA, 2021, vol. 325, no. 9, pg. 865 - 877.
  • Lacy, Brian E. (Dr.), et. al. "ACG Clinical Guideline: Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome." The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 2021, vol. 116, no. 1, pg. 17 - 44.
  • Mayer, Emeran A., et. al. "The neurobiology of irritable bowel syndrome". Molecular Psychiatry, 2023, vol. 28, pg. 1451 - 1465.
  • Ng, Qin Xiang, et. al. "The role of inflammation in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)." Journal of Inflammation Research, 2018, vol. 11, pg. 345 - 349.