Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Between 10% and 15% of Americans have irritable bowel syndrome, a chronic illness characterized by abdominal pain, cramping, and rectal bleeding. At Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island, with offices in Wantagh and Malverne, New York, gastroenterologists Jeffrey Novak, MD, and Zachary Marwil, MD, take a conservative, patient-centered approach to irritable bowel syndrome treatment. Call the nearest office today or book your appointment online to be screened for irritable bowel syndrome.

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a digestive disorder that causes gas, loose stools, and abdominal pain. It doesn’t increase your risk of more severe problems, like colon cancer. But it can affect your independence, mobility, and quality of life.

If you spend most days worrying about finding a toilet in an emergency, contact Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island today.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:

• Abdominal pain
• Cramping
• Bloating and gas
• Changes in the appearance of bowel movements

You might also need to have bowel movements more frequently than usual. Your stools might also look greasy or have mucus in them.

When should I see a specialist about irritable bowel syndrome?

Make an appointment with the providers at Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island if you have diarrhea or loose stools for more than a few days. That’s especially true if you experience other symptoms like weight loss, rectal bleeding, or abdominal pain that isn’t relieved by passing gas.

How is irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed?

To diagnose irritable bowel syndrome, your Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island provider reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms. They’ll want to know when your symptoms started, if eating some foods makes them worse, and if emotions like stress trigger them.

Next, your provider completes a physical exam and orders several tests, including bloodwork. Your provider also compares your symptoms to the Rome criteria. This criterion includes abdominal pain and changes in stool consistency. The higher your score on the Rome criteria, the more likely you are to have IBS.

Your gastroenterologist might also order a colonoscopy to get a closer look at the lining of your large intestine.

How is irritable bowel syndrome treated?

At Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island, the providers take a conservative approach to treating irritable bowel syndrome. Often, healthy lifestyle changes are enough to significantly improve your quality of life. Your gastroenterologist might recommend:

• Avoiding foods that trigger your symptoms
• Eating a high-fiber diet
• Drinking plenty of water
• Exercising regularly
• Getting plenty of sleep

If healthy lifestyle changes don’t provide lasting relief, you might also benefit from over-the-counter products like fiber supplements, anti-diarrheal medication, or laxatives.

Call the nearest Gastrointestinal Specialists of Long Island office today to receive treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, or book your appointment online.