IBS (also referred to as “irritable bowel syndrome” is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite being highly common, the disorder can have a serious impact on your daily life. It comes with a number of unwanted symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Treatment for IBS is necessary as it can help alleviate the unwanted symptoms and improve your quality of life. Additionally, it can reduce your risk for complications associated with IBS, including mental health conditions and nutritional deficiencies. Let’s see when to see a specialist for IBS.
When to See a Specialist for IBS
Managing your IBS is critical for your health and well-being. If you notice any of the following changes, it’s time to set up an appointment with a specialist about your IBS.
Extreme Change In Symptoms:
Sudden or extreme changes in your IBS symptoms are key. Common IBS symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, changes in bowel habits, and constipation. If any of these suddenly change or get worse, it’s time to check in with a specialist for support.
Ineffective Treatment:
Irritable bowel syndrome can change over time, and this is completely normal. However, your treatment plan should be effective and address your IBS symptoms. Every treatment plan can take some time to work, so it’s important to be patient. But, if your treatment plan isn’t working after three months, it’s time to see a specialist to modify it.
Severe Abdominal Pain:
Abdominal pain is a common symptom among those who have IBS. If your abdominal pain suddenly becomes severe, it can be a sign of a serious issue. Severe abdominal pain should be treated seriously, and you should seek medical treatment right away. In some cases, you may need to visit the emergency room. However, follow up with an IBS specialist just to be safe.
Severe Diarrhea:
Diarrhea is also a common symptom associated with IBS. If you have acute and severe diarrhea, it can be a sign of a more serious issue. Diarrhea occurs when you have loose or watery bowels, an increase in bowel movements, or both. It’s critical to take this seriously, as you can easily become dehydrated if the issue is not addressed right away.
Symptoms of Malabsorption:
Symptoms associated with malabsorption include chronic diarrhea, gas, bloating, abdominal pain, weight loss, and stool changes. This can impact other parts of your body and lead to serious health issues if not properly diagnosed and treated. With that, if you experience any of the symptoms associated with malabsorption, contact an IBS specialist right away.
Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease:
Symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease (“IBD”) include diarrhea, abdominal discomfort and pain, bloating, gas, incomplete bowel movements, sleep issues, and mucus in your stool. There is some crossover with symptoms of IBS and IBD, so it can be difficult to differentiate. However, a change in symptoms indicates that you should contact an IBS specialist right away.
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer:
Symptoms associated with colorectal cancer include a change in bowel movements, bloody or dark stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, and anemia. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a hepatology specialist near you in Los Angeles right away. Early intervention is key to having a healthy prognosis and reducing your risk for other harmful health issues associated with IBS.
Managing Your IBS
If you are currently experiencing IBS symptoms, it’s important to talk with an IBS specialist right away, as they can provide you with a diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Additionally, if your current treatment plan isn’t working, getting checked out by a specialist can be beneficial. Early intervention and proper management can minimize the long-term impact of IBS on your daily activities and overall well-being.
