April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month
Apr 04, 2022
Walk With a Doc
What is IBS?
IBS is a recurrent, long-term disorder involving the large and small intestine of the gastrointestinal tract.
IBS causes disturbances in gut motor function and sensation leading to diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and pain.
Many gut related activities are regulated by the brain which is why IBS is often called a brain-gut disorder.
Facts About IBS:
IBS affects people of all ages including children.
Worldwide, 10-15% of the population has IBS.
IBS is not associated with an increased risk for life-threatening illness but it is associated with a significant health care burden.
The impact of IBS can range from mild inconvenience to severe debilitation.
IBS symptoms vary and diarrhea can alternate with constipation. Long-term symptoms can disrupt personal and professional activities, and limit individual potential.
Treatments are available for IBS to help manage symptoms. Not all treatments work for all people.
Although IBS is common in the general population, few seek medical care for their symptoms.
IBS can only be diagnosed by a medical professional.
At Manisha “Mona” Dave, MD – Pediatric Gastroenterology, we provide expert, child-focused digestive care from infancy to young adulthood. Dr. Dave, double board-certified in pediatric gastroenterology and obesity medicine, delivers accurate diagnoses, often within a week, in a warm, family-friendly setting.
