What you need to know about IBS

Do you have IBS and want expert advice how to manage it? Here to help is leading consultant gastroenterologist and interventional endoscopist Dr George Goodchild.

What is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects both the stomach and the intestines. It's a chronic condition meaning that strategies are needed to manage the condition long term. Importantly, patients with IBS don't have any abnormality in the gastrointestinal tissues and nor is there any increased risk of complications, such as cancer. 

What are signs and symptoms of IBS?

It leads to a combination of symptoms including bloating, abdominal cramps and often urgency to pass stool. The symptoms of IBS tend to come and go over time, with relatively calm periods followed by ‘flare ups’ that may last anything from a few days to a few months. 
 

What are the indications you would need to see a specialist for IBS?

Specialist options should be sought when new symptoms develop, so that other more serious conditions can be excluded. Red flag symptoms that may mean there is something more serious going on, include:

• weight loss;
• rectal bleeding;
• symptoms during the night, and;
• abnormal blood or stool results.
   

How can serious IBS be treated?

Yes, there are many excellent treatment options ranging from dietary interventions through to medications. Treatment plans should be personalised to individual patients.
 

Does it ever go away? Are there ways to manage this condition?

IBS tends to come and go. Empowering patients with the tools and medicines to manage their condition in the long term means that most patients can live full and healthy lives with minimal disruption to their day to day lives. 

To arrange an appointment with Dr Goodchild for IBS or other gastroenterological conditions, visit his Top Doctors profile.