Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons, P.C. Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons, P.C.

(585) 22-COLON or (585) 222-6566

IBS Treatment in Rochester, NY

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a persistent disorder impacting the large intestine, leading to uncomfortable manifestations. The majority of IBS instances are mild, and, unlike gastrointestinal ailments such as Crohn’s Disease or Colitis, they do not culminate in grave conditions like colorectal cancer. Only a minimal fraction of IBS patients experience severe symptoms. Should you be encountering IBS signs, it’s advisable to reach out to Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons for a consultation on diagnosis and treatment options with our expert colorectal surgeons. To book your appointment at one of our six colorectal surgery centers in Western New York, please call (585) 222-6566 today.

What are the Signs of IBS?

The signs of IBS encompass:

  • Gas
  • Diarrhea or Constipation
  • Stomach Pain and/or Cramps
  • Sensation of Bloating
  • Sudden Alterations in Bowel Habits
  • Intolerance to Certain Foods

These symptoms must persist over an extended period for an IBS diagnosis. It’s vital to acknowledge that such signs may occur in the absence of IBS or may be triggered by different GI issues.

What Causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS remains unclear. However, the physiological reason behind IBS is the malfunctioning of the muscles lining the intestines, which should contract and relax rhythmically to propel food through. This means contractions may be too prolonged/short or too strong/weak, resulting in various uncomfortable symptoms.

The following factors may instigate IBS in some individuals, although it varies from person to person:

  • Food Allergies/Intolerance: Identify foods triggering your IBS symptoms, monitor when they occur, and compile a list.
  • Other Illnesses: GI infections like gastroenteritis, as well as other GI diseases, can lead to IBS.
  • Psychological Factors: Stress, depression, and anxiety can all contribute to IBS.
  • Family History: A familial history of IBS increases the likelihood of experiencing it as well.

How to Treat IBS

Most IBS cases can be alleviated through the following interventions:

Dietary Adjustments: Eliminate gluten, high gas-producing foods (soda, certain vegetables), and certain carbohydrates like fructose and lactose (FODMAPs). This underscores the importance of tracking foods that induce IBS symptoms.
Medication: Various medications can mitigate IBS symptoms, such as:Anti-Diarrheal (Imodium)

  • Fiber Supplements (Metamucil)
  • Antidepressants; the prescription may vary depending on the presence of depression
  • Antispasmodic (Levsin)
  • IBS-specific medication (Lotronex, Amitiza)
  • Antibiotics if IBS is infection-induced.

Schedule an Appointment for IBS Treatment in Rochester Today!

Receive the medical attention that your body needs, and contact Rochester Colon & Rectal Surgeons, P.C. if you begin to notice signs of irritable bowel syndrome or have questions about your condition. Patients may call (585) 222-6566 to request an appointment with our board-certified colorectal surgeons at one of our six colorectal surgery centers in Rochester, NY.