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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Specialist

Gastro90210 Jonathan S Pourmorady, MD Our Services Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Gastro90210

Jonathan S Pourmorady, MD

Gastroenterology & Hepatology located in Los Angeles, CA & Garden Grove, CA

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects as many as 45 million people in the United States, two-thirds of whom are women. IBS causes abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and other problematic symptoms that undermine your quality of life. At Gastro90210 in the Century City neighborhood of Los Angeles and Garden Grove, California, Jonathan Pourmorady, MD, helps you manage IBS to ease your symptoms and restore digestive comfort. Call today for your appointment or use the online tool to schedule.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Q & A

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects your large intestine. It’s a chronic medical condition and occurs most often in women, but can affect both sexes and all ages – even children.

Usually, IBS begins before age 50. Symptoms of IBS come and go and are often triggered by hormones, stress, or food choices.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

Some people with IBS have symptoms that are relatively mild, while other people have extreme stomach pain and upsetting symptoms that interfere with their work and social life.

Common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:

  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Mucus in the stool
  • Flatulence
  • Bloating

Not everyone experiences IBS the same way. IBS may cause diarrhea and loose stools, in which case you’re diagnosed with IBS-D, or the condition may result in chronic constipation which is called IBS-C. In some people, diarrhea and constipation alternate.

Symptoms may come and go, and they may flare up unexpectedly to affect your daily life.

Why do I have irritable bowel syndrome?

Why some people develop irritable bowel syndrome isn’t fully understood. The condition may be due to overactivity or weakness in your intestine. 

Other possible causes of IBS include:

  • Gut dysbiosis
  • Low stomach acid
  • Increased intestinal permeability
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
  • Food sensitivities or allergies
  • Inflammation
  • Infection

While stress and hormones don’t cause IBS to develop, these factors can trigger a flare-up of symptoms. At Gastro90210, Dr. Pourmorady can help you identify your triggers to minimize flare-ups and live a more comfortable life.

What are the treatments for irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome can’t be cured, but the symptoms may be managed. Dr. Pourmorady may recommend dietary changes to help ease your IBS. He’ll help you identify trigger foods and recommend you avoid these altogether.

Common foods that may trigger IBS symptoms are gluten-containing foods (wheat, barley, and rye), carbonated beverages, alcohol, and FODMAPS – specific types of fermentable carbohydrates that include some vegetables, grains, fruits, and dairy. You also benefit from staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, and getting regular exercise.

In addition to these dietary and lifestyle changes, he may also recommend certain prescription medications, especially if SIBO, inflammation, or infection is to blame for your IBS. 

Ultimately, your IBS treatment plan is individualized to you. Dr. Pourmorady evaluates your specific case and the numerous factors that could be affecting your digestive health.

If you’re suffering symptoms that suggest IBS, call Gastro90210 or use the online tool to book an appointment.

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