Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine and causes symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or alternating bowel habits. At GastroCare LI, we provide customized IBS care plans that focus on long-term relief and improved quality of life.

Because IBS doesn’t show up on standard lab tests or imaging, diagnosis is based on your symptoms, history, and ruling out other causes. Our team performs a careful evaluation to identify potential dietary triggers, stress factors, and imbalances in gut motility or bacteria.

We use a variety of treatment approaches depending on your IBS subtype (constipation-predominant, diarrhea-predominant, or mixed). Options may include dietary therapy (like the low FODMAP diet), probiotics, antispasmodics, or medications that regulate gut function.

IBS is not life-threatening, but it can be life-disrupting. At GastroCare LI, we work with you to manage symptoms holistically—addressing the gut-brain connection, emotional stress, and overall digestion.

You don’t have to manage IBS alone. Contact GastroCare LI at (516) 825-8484 to get expert guidance and find a treatment plan that works for your body.

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What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects your large intestine. It causes abdominal pain and bowel habit problems in up to 15% of Americans today. While IBS can cause severe and disruptive symptoms, it doesn’t lead to cancer or structural changes in your digestive tract.

What are the signs of irritable bowel syndrome?

IBS can cause different symptoms from one person to another. The most common symptoms of IBS include:

  • Abdominal cramping or pain
  • Bowel movement changes: frequent diarrhea, constipation, or both
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Mucus in stool

Symptoms may occur frequently or only once in a while, and the severity can fluctuate.

When should I see a doctor about IBS symptoms?

If your IBS symptoms are frequent or they interrupt your daily activities, it’s time to call GastroCare LI. Certain symptoms are more serious and could indicate a condition like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or colon cancer. These symptoms include:

  • Severe debilitating pain
  • Unexplained major weight loss
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Pain that persists after you pass gas or have a bowel movement
  • Rectal bleeding

If you have these severe symptoms, reach out to GastroCare LI immediately so you can get an accurate diagnosis.

How is irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed?

IBS diagnosis involves a detailed review of your problems and symptoms. Your GastroCare LI provider may recommend certain tests to verify or rule out the source of your symptoms.

Common tests include blood work, lactose breath testing, sucrose breath testing, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) testing. If you’re 45 or older, your provider may recommend colon cancer screening with a colonoscopy as well.

What is the most effective irritable bowel syndrome treatment?

IBS treatment often involves lifestyle changes alongside medication and other medical interventions. Common approaches include:

  • Avoiding trigger foods
  • Increasing dietary fiber
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Stress management and relaxation techniques
  • Regular exercise
  • Probiotic supplements
  • Psychotherapy
  • Mindfulness training

Many medications may help to manage IBS symptoms, including anti-diarrheal drugs, antidepressants, laxatives, and medications that alter the speed waste moves through your bowels. Most people experience significant IBS relief with a customized combination of these treatments.

If you have frequent irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, don’t let embarrassment hold you back from getting relief. The expert gastroenterologists at GastroCare LI are ready to help, so call the office or use the online scheduling feature to set up your appointment now.