IBS - Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Digestive Issues
What is it?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition of the digestive system. It can cause bouts of abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. IBS is a group of symptoms that occur together, not a disease. In the past, IBS was called colitis, mucous colitis, spastic colon (spasms), nervous colon, spastic bowel. The name was changed to reflect the understanding that the disorder has both physical and mental causes and is not a product of a person’s imagination. IBS is diagnosed when a person has had abdominal pain or discomfort at least three times a month for the last 3 months without other disease or injury that could explain the pain. The pain or discomfort of IBS may occur with a change in stool frequency or consistency or be relieved by a bowel movement. Other similar conditions include SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), Crohn's, and Ileocecal Valve Dysfunction, all of which are successfully treated in our clinic.
Key Points:
Affects 5-20% of adults.
• Psychological stressors may increase symptoms
• Abdominal pain is accompanied with either constipation or diarrhea.
• Sufferers may experience a higher rate of anxiety, depression, migraine headaches, urinary dysfunction or sleep disturbances.
• 10 times more likely to occur after a bout of infectious diarrhea
• Abdominal bloating is common
• Psychological stressors may increase symptoms
• Abdominal pain is accompanied with either constipation or diarrhea.
• Sufferers may experience a higher rate of anxiety, depression, migraine headaches, urinary dysfunction or sleep disturbances.
• 10 times more likely to occur after a bout of infectious diarrhea
• Abdominal bloating is common
How do we treat it?
IBS is a common condition. As a matter of fact about a quarter of our patients or more are coming in with some level of digestive/abdominal upset which is affecting their overall health. Our naturopathic treatment of IBS and other digestive issues starts with a thorough assessment of your diet and lifestyle, along with either IgG Food Sensitivity testing or GI Mapping. Once this information is collected a treatment plan focused on dietary changes and medicinal support to improve the gut will be discussed with you. Dr. Michael Schaplowsky, ND looks forward to the opportunity to discuss your digestive concerns with you.
Dr. Michael is also a member of the Gastroenterology Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
Dr. Michael is also a member of the Gastroenterology Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
