IBS Awareness Month: Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome

April is recognized as IBS Awareness Month, dedicated to educating the public about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), its symptoms, and the importance of seeking appropriate treatment.

It is estimated that up to 11% of the global population is affected by IBS, with a higher frequency observed among women compared to men.

According to Ariana Greenwood, MD, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at AdventHealth Medical Group Gastroenterology in Louisville, this number may be underestimated due to misdiagnosis.

“People can go decades suffering unnecessarily with various symptoms because of this,” said Dr. Greenwood. “We encourage anyone with gastrointestinal symptoms to be evaluated by a gastroenterologist or their primary care provider to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.”

Dr. Greenwood has advice for people wondering if they are suffering from IBS.

First, IBS is a condition characterized by chronic pain or discomfort associated with bowel movements, along with changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or both.

Irritable bowel syndrome is often driven by emotional or mental stressors such as anxiety, depression, or stress.

“It is important to differentiate IBS from other conditions like food intolerances or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which are sometimes mischaracterized as IBS but are separate conditions entirely,” said Dr. Greenwood.

The symptoms of IBS include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation

Irritable bowel syndrome is not inherently considered a dangerous condition that could be a precursor to a more serious underlying condition.

“However, it is important to address symptoms with a health care provider to rule out more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease, which can often be mistakenly attributed to IBS without proper evaluation,” said Dr. Greenwood.

IBS can be treated with medications that target both abdominal pain and specific bowel disturbances. Managing emotional factors is also crucial, and therapy or medications to address these issues can be part of an effective treatment plan.

IBS Awareness Month is an opportunity to shed light on this often-misunderstood condition. By increasing awareness and understanding, we can improve the lives of those affected by IBS and ensure they receive the care and treatment they need.

Click here to connect with Dr. Greenwood.