Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition of the large intestine (colon). At Franciscan Health, our doctors can help you manage symptoms and find relief with lifestyle changes and IBS medications.

Request An Appointment

Request An Appointment

At Franciscan Health, our gastroenterologists (digestive health specialists) help you experience relief from IBS symptoms. To treat IBS, your doctor may recommend IBS medications if your symptoms are severe. If they are mild, your doctor may recommend:

Changes to your diet
Increased fluid intake
More exercise
More sleep
Ways to manage stress

How is IBS diagnosed?

Our gastroenterologists diagnose irritable bowel syndrome using your medical history and a physical examination. To rule out other conditions, you may also have tests that include:

Lactose intolerance test: Your doctor may recommend this test to determine if lactose intolerance (milk intolerance) is the cause of your symptoms.
Imaging tests: Your doctor may use X-rays, CT scan or lower GI series with barium (X-ray test where your doctor fills the large intestine with liquid to improve visualization) to obtain images of the colon.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Your doctor uses a flexible, lighted tube (sigmoidoscope) to see the lower part of your colon.
Colonoscopy: Your doctor examines your entire colon using a thin, flexible tube. Your doctor may also remove tissue for analysis and polyps during a colonoscopy.

What causes IBS?

IBS generally develops during the late teens to early 40s. Although experts don’t know the exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome, they have identified potential triggers including:

Certain foods
Emotional stress
Excessive bacteria in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract
Hormone levels

You may also be at greater risk for developing irritable bowel syndrome if you:

Are a woman
Are younger than 45
Have a family history of irritable bowel syndrome
Have a mental health problem

Symptoms of IBS

The signs and severity of irritable bowel syndrome can vary greatly from person to person. Although IBS symptoms can be unpleasant, the condition doesn't cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk for colorectal cancer.

Common symptoms of IBS include:

Abdominal pain or cramping (usually in the lower section of the abdomen)
Feeling bloated
Gas
Having diarrhea or constipation (sometimes rotating between the two)
Mucus in the stool

Find A Provider

Our providers offer comprehensive treatment options. We make it easy to find exceptional providers and get world-class care, right where you live and work.