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IBS Specialist

Digestive Disease Specialists Our Services IBS

Digestive Disease Specialists

Gastroenterology Practice located in Moline, IL & Bettendorf, IA

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and bowel changes that make life unpleasant. Affecting nearly 45 million people in the United States, IBS needs medical management to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. At Digestive Disease Specialists with offices in Moline, Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa, the gastroenterology team has experience helping IBS patients restore digestive comfort and live a more normal life. Call today for your appointment, or use this website to schedule online.

IBS Q&A

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that affects your large intestine. Women are more likely to develop IBS than men, and it usually begins before age 50. Anyone of any age or gender can develop IBS, however. 

Symptoms of IBS are intermittent and can be triggered by stress, hormones, or certain food choices. 

What are the symptoms of IBS?

IBS symptoms can be mild and tolerable, but in some people, IBS causes extreme stomach pain and other symptoms that interfere with their work and social life.

People with IBS often experience:

  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Flatulence
  • Bloating
  • Mucus in the stool

IBS also causes bowel changes, which can show up as regular diarrhea (IBS-D) or constipation (IBS-C) in some people.  IBS sufferers may also have periods of alternating constipation and diarrhea. 

IBS symptoms aren’t always present; they tend to come and go without warning.

Why do I have irritable bowel syndrome?

Researchers still aren’t certain why some people develop IBS. It may have to do with overactivity or weakness in your large intestine. 

Other possible causes of IBS include:

  • Gut dysbiosis
  • Low stomach acid
  • Increased intestinal permeability
  • Body-wide inflammation
  • Food sensitivities or allergies
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
  • Infection

Stress and hormonal changes aren’t a cause of IBS, but they can trigger symptoms to flare up or worsen. 

How can I get relief from IBS?

IBS isn’t curable, but symptoms can be managed quite well. 

Dietary changes are a primary way to help ease your IBS. The gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Specialists can help you identify trigger foods to avoid. These may include gluten, alcohol, carbonated beverages, and some grains, fruits, and vegetables. Dairy is also a trigger in some people.

Other lifestyle actions that help you manage IBS include staying hydrated, keeping physically active, and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule. 

If SIBO, infection, or inflammation are causing your IBS, prescription medications can help you find relief. Ultimately, your provider customizes your plan to address your IBS's severity and suspected reasons.

If you have symptoms that suggest you have IBS, contact Digestive Disease Specialists by phone or online today to set up a consultation.

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