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Irritable Bowel Syndrome Specialist

Premier Gastroenterology

M. Rodwan Hiba, M.D.

Gastroenterologist located in Brooksville, FL

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 12% of adults, yet women are twice as likely as men to struggle with the disease. At Premier Gastroenterology, M. Rodwan Hiba, MD, has years of experience helping people with IBS restore normal bowel function and return to life without the constant worry of needing a bathroom. If you have recurring abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea, call the office in Brooksville, Florida, or book an appointment online today.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Q & A

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

IBS is a chronic disease that affects your large intestine. Many people have a hard time understanding the disease because they can have severe symptoms yet there’s nothing physically wrong with their bowels, such as inflammation or ulcers.

IBS is likely caused by several factors. The nerves may become more sensitive and make normal changes like bloating feel more painful than normal. The muscle contractions that push waste through the large intestine may get stronger or weaker. In some cases, an infection like gastroenteritis or an imbalance in gut microbes may play a role.

What symptoms develop if I have irritable bowel syndrome?

IBS is defined by its two primary symptoms: changes in your bowel habits and abdominal pain and bloating.

You may have one of three types of IBS, depending on your symptoms:

IBS with constipation (IBS-C)

If you have IBS-C, you may strain to have bowel movements, have infrequent bowel movements, or feel like you can’t empty your bowels. The abdominal pain associated with IBS-C typically improves after you have a complete bowel movement.

IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)

This type of IBS causes symptoms that are typical of diarrhea, including abdominal pain and bloating, and loose, frequent bowel movements. You may also have urinary urgency and pain in other areas of your body.

IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)

You have IBS-M if you have symptoms of IBS-C and IBS-D.

How is irritable bowel syndrome treated?

Dr. Hiba learns about your individual symptoms and works together with you to create a treatment plan that meets your needs and improves your symptoms.

Your treatment may include:

Dietary therapy

Some foods may trigger your IBS symptoms. During dietary therapy, you learn to identify your triggers and make a plan to keep them out of your diet. In addition to eliminating some foods, it’s important to create a meal plan that stabilizes your bowel habits. For example, many people need more fiber.

Medications

Your symptoms may improve with one of the many medications available to relieve constipation and diarrhea. You may need over-the-counter or prescription medications such as:

  • Anti-spasmodics
  • Bile acid sequestrants
  • Pro-secretory medications
  • Fiber supplements
  • Anti-diarrheal medications
  • Laxatives
  • Stool softeners

IBS is challenging for you and often takes time to treat. You can rely on the experts at Premier Gastroenterology to help. Call or book an appointment online today.