Overview
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits. While there is no cure for IBS, there are a number of things you can do to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Diagnosis
There is no one definitive test for IBS. However, your doctor may order a number of tests to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, such as celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or inflammatory bowel disease. These tests may include:
- Blood tests: These tests can check for anemia, thyroid problems, and other conditions that can mimic IBS symptoms.
- Stool tests: These tests can check for infections, parasites, and other conditions that can affect the digestive system.
- Colonoscopy: This test allows your doctor to look inside your colon for signs of inflammation or other abnormalities.
Treatment
The goal of IBS treatment is to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for IBS, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, there are a number of things you can do to manage your symptoms, including:
- Dietary changes: Certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these foods can help to reduce your symptoms. Common food triggers include wheat, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
- Lifestyle changes: Stress, anxiety, and lack of sleep can all worsen IBS symptoms. Managing stress, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly can help to improve your symptoms.
- Medications: There are a number of medications that can be used to treat specific IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
- Psychological therapies: Psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help you to better manage stress and cope with IBS symptoms.
Potential Future Treatments
Researchers are continuing to investigate new treatments for IBS. Some potential future treatments include:
- Newer medications: Researchers are developing new medications that target specific IBS symptoms.
- Probiotics: Probiotics are live bacteria that are similar to the bacteria that are naturally found in your gut. Some studies have shown that probiotics may help to improve IBS symptoms.
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT): FMT is a procedure in which stool from a healthy donor is transplanted into the colon of a person with IBS. Some studies have shown that FMT may be effective in treating IBS.
Care at Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic offers a comprehensive approach to the care of people with IBS. Our team of experts will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is right for you.
