Signs That You May Have IBS

Many of us experience occasional gastrointestinal discomfort, whether it bloating after overeating, gas from disagreeable foods, or constipation during travel. However, when stomach and bowel problems persist, it can be a sign of a bigger issue.

Irritable bowel syndrome, a chronic intestinal disorder, is a common yet distressing condition with unpleasant effects, from diarrhea to cramping. Dr. Ilyas Memon, with offices in The Woodlands and Conroe, TX, can help you find relief if you are suffering from IBS. Here are the signs you may have the condition, and how we can help you:

Common signs of IBS include frequent or recurrent instances of:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Cramping
• Rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Mucus in the stool

If you have IBS, these symptoms may be more prominent during times of stress, hormonal shifts, when consuming certain foods, or when taking antibiotics. Make sure to tell a doctor at either our office in The Woodlands or Conroe about any patterns you've noticed in your IBS flare-ups.

What you can do to help treat your IBS:

There are methods you can try at home to alleviate your IBS. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following, depending on the severity, cause, and frequency of your symptoms:

• Dietary changes: Certain foods, such as dairy, alcohol, cruciferous vegetables, gluten, beans and carbonated beverages can exacerbate IBS. Your doctor at our office in The Woodlands can help you map out an elimination plan to see which of these foods are contributing to your IBS.
• Exercise: Physical activity can help stimulate the bowels and aid in digestion. Walking, jumping, and aerobics are good options.
• Supplements: Your doctor may suggest a fiber supplement, either in powder or pill form, to help stimulate your bowels.
• Medication: For more severe cases of IBS, you may benefit from over-the-counter or prescription anti-diarrheal medicine, antispasmodic medications, antibiotics, or antidepressants.

Call either our office in The Woodlands or our Conroe location at 281-764-9500 to let Dr. Memon help you get back to feeling your best.