It Could Be More Than A Stomachache — Intermountain Health Experts Talk Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects between 25 and 45 million people in the United States – or 1 in 20 Americans. That’s why Intermountain Health and other health systems across the country want to promote understanding and compassion for those living with this condition during IBS Awareness Month, a month dedicated to building awareness, changing stigmas, and building supporting.

These statistics highlight the widespread impact of IBS and the importance of increasing personal awareness and support for those affected. Although widespread, it’s an often-misunderstood condition affecting the gut and the brain.

The bowel is part of the digestive tract and is also where the body makes and stores stool. Normally, a healthy colon keeps its contents moving through it with a regular rhythm. Individuals with IBS, the rhythm of their colon is altered, causing a high level of sensitivity in their bowels and more stomach discomfort.

IBS is characterized by a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation. While IBS is a chronic condition, it thankfully does not increase the risk of colon cancer or cause permanent damage to the colon.

“Early diagnosis and effective management of IBS can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected,” said Christine Hachem, MD, a regional medical director of gastroenterology and digestive health for Intermountain Health. “By understanding and avoiding triggers, individuals can better control their symptoms and lead healthier lives.”

Who is at risk?

IBS can affect anyone – both men and women, but certain groups are more at risk. It is more common in women and those with a family history of IBS. Individuals under the age of 50 are more at-risk, but IBS can affect a person of any age.

“We actually don’t know what causes IBS, but the two main triggers of IBS symptoms are stress and diet,” said Dr. Hachem.

In general, large meals, fatty foods, caffeine, gluten, chocolate, alcohol, and sugary foods are poorly tolerated by individuals with IBS.

With stress and anxiety known to exacerbate symptoms, individuals with IBS also need to manage their mental health effectively to help avoid a flare up.

Other common triggers of IBS include medications and hormonal changes. Dr. Hachem suggests keeping a diary to help identify specific triggers.

Brent Allen, DO, a general surgeon at Intermountain Health Sevier Valley Hospital, also adds that “IBS is the most common condition that patients seek gastrointestinal help for.”

Diagnosing IBS

There is no specific test for diagnosing IBS. Physicians typically rely on a combination of symptoms, medical history, and physical exams.

According to Dr. Allen, altogether experiencing abdominal pain at least one day a week for three months in a row with changes in frequency or consistency of bowl movements can be a sign of IBS.

Blood tests, stool samples, and colonoscopies can be used to ensure that symptoms are not caused by other health issues.

Treating IBS

“IBS can be difficult to figure out,” said Dr. Allen. “However, once it has been diagnosed the treatment is straightforward. A patient may not have to live with this. Once they see a physician, we can get it diagnosed and taken care of.”

Treatment for IBS often involves lifestyle and dietary changes. Mild cases can be managed by avoiding trigger foods and incorporating regular exercise into daily routines.

For more severe cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help manage symptoms. Both Drs. Hachem and Allen suggest keeping a daily log of food intake, activities, and bowel movements to help identify and avoid triggers.

Intermountain Health encourages those experiencing symptoms of IBS to seek medical advice and support from their primary care physician or a gastroenterologist.

With proper management, most people with IBS can lead healthy, active lives.

Intermountain Health provides comprehensive care and support to those affected by IBS, helping them navigate their condition with confidence.

For more information on IBS and how to manage contact your healthcare provider or visit https://intermountainhealthcare.org/services/gastroenterology

About Intermountain Health

Headquartered in Utah with locations in six states and additional operations across the western U.S., Intermountain Health is a not-for-profit system of 34 hospitals, approximately 400 clinics, medical groups with some 4,600 employed physicians and advanced care providers, a health plans division called Select Health with more than one million members, and other health services. Helping people live the healthiest lives possible, Intermountain is committed to improving community health and is widely recognized as a leader in transforming healthcare by using evidence-based best practices to consistently deliver high-quality outcomes at sustainable costs. For up-to-date information and announcements, please see the Intermountain Health newsroom at https://intermountainhealthcare.org/news.